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Bongi Mbonambi reportedly leaves Sharks to rejoin Stormers

Double World Cup winner Bongi Mbonambi has reportedly left the Sharks with immediate effect to rejoin the Stormers, as he works towards a Springbok recall.

By Central Admin2 min read

Springbok hooker Bongi Mbonambi is reportedly set to return to the Stormers, ending a difficult period at the Sharks. IOL reported that Stormers Director of Rugby John Dobson confirmed the 35-year-old will leave Durban with immediate effect and rejoin the Cape franchise.

Why the move happened

Mbonambi missed the opening rounds of the United Rugby Championship (URC), and his absence prompted questions. Sharks head coach JP Pietersen answered with a repeated “no comment” at press briefings, IOL said.

It later emerged that the hooker was involved in an internal disciplinary matter. This reportedly followed an alleged breach of team protocols at a pre-season camp in Zululand. The allegation is not proven, and neither side has been quoted on the details in the report. IOL also noted that Mbonambi had spent time on the sidelines recovering from knee and lower-back issues.

A Stormers side short at hooker

The timing suits the Stormers. They won 52-40 against the Scarlets, but the match exposed how thin they are in the position. According to IOL:

  • starting hooker André-Hugo Venter suffered a severe elbow injury;
  • Lukhanyo Vokozela failed an HIA protocol;
  • JJ Kotze is serving a suspension after a red card against Bristol Bears.

The shortage was so severe that 35-year-old Scarra Ntubeni was called out of retirement as emergency cover. Mbonambi arrives ahead of Saturday’s match against Ulster, although the report does not say whether he will be selected.

The Springbok picture

The move matters for the national side too. Mbonambi is a double World Cup winner, and the next tournament is the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. IOL reported that Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus recently said Mbonambi is still in the team’s long-term plans, provided he proves his fitness and form.

Erasmus said the hooker “must just play some proper matches now” before the coaches look at him again. IOL pointed out that the Springboks are light at hooker, with Malcolm Marx carrying a heavy load.

What to watch next

For supporters, the main thing to follow is Saturday’s URC fixture against Ulster, where the Stormers’ hooker selection will show how quickly Mbonambi is being brought back into the side. Beyond that, his fitness and game time in the coming months will decide whether the Springbok door stays open.

This story is based on reporting by IOL.

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