John Dobson has outlined the dual impact Siya Kolisi has already made at the Stormers, whilst making clear that the World Cup winner's on-field performance remains the primary focus as the Cape Town side prepare to face Edinburgh on Friday night.
Kolisi will make his first appearance for the Stormers in more than five years when he starts at openside flank at Hive Stadium, his 119th outing for the franchise. The 35-year-old's return from the Sharks has generated considerable anticipation since the move was confirmed in December, and Dobson acknowledged the immediate lift his presence has provided.
"I could see him in the warm-up last week … His presence, just the smile and the songs and everything, it lifts the team," Dobson said. The director of rugby revealed that Kolisi had been eager to feature immediately after flying from Perth and joining the squad in Ireland ahead of their victory over Connacht, particularly after late withdrawals left the Stormers short of options in the back row.
Rugby contribution the priority
Dobson stressed that whilst Kolisi's leadership qualities and physical presence have been notable, the team's needs are firmly rooted in what he can deliver on the pitch. "There's no question that the rugby contribution is what we're after and what we need," he said. The Stormers director highlighted Kolisi's specific skill set, noting that he secures turnovers through tackling and counter-rucking rather than operating as a traditional jackal specialist.
The timing of Kolisi's selection has been shaped by injuries to other Springbok loose forwards, with Paul de Villiers and Deon Fourie both unavailable for the Edinburgh fixture. Dobson confirmed that Kolisi's role extends beyond immediate on-field demands, particularly in integrating the franchise's Springbok contingent and establishing standards across the squad.
The match at Hive Stadium represents a significant milestone in Kolisi's second stint with the Stormers, with the Cape Town faithful awaiting confirmation that the two-time World Cup winner can translate his experience and leadership into the kind of performances that defined his earlier years at the franchise. Dobson's comments suggest the coaching staff are confident in what Kolisi can deliver, provided the focus remains squarely on his rugby output rather than the considerable off-field influence he has already demonstrated.