Cheslin Kolbe quashes rumours of Japan contract

The Land of the Rising Sun has lured a plethora of Springboks over the last two seasons, including the likes of hardman Pieter-Steph du Toit, the indomitable Malcolm Marx and livewire Faf de Klerk, to name but a few.

Late last year, French news outlet Midi Olympique reported that Kolbe was set to swap the Top 14 for Japan League One. However, speaking to AFP earlier this week, the Toulon player threw a spanner in the works of the rumour mill.

"I'm not going to Japan, I'm not going anywhere, I'm staying here," said the 2019 Rugby World Cup hero. "I still have a lot I would love to do and give back to this jersey. I'll still be here until 2024."

Kolbe also commented on his Springbok captain, Siya Kolisi, who recently secured a move to Racing 92, who already have Bok teammates Trevor Nyakane and Warrick Gelant on their books.

"It's a big win for Racing to get him," said the hot-stepper.

"He's a phenomenal guy, a phenomenal player. As a close friend of mine, wherever he goes, I'm happy. It's a pity he didn't choose to come to Toulon!"

Looking forward to the Rugby World Cup in September, Kolbe handed the favourites tag to the red-hot Irish outfit, who have won ten out of their last 11 matches, including an impressive win over World Cup hosts France last weekend.

"They're definitely favourites going into the World Cup, especially based in France," continued Kolbe.

"After their performance in the Grand Slam, beating New Zealand and then us at the end of last year they're going in as favourites. We know as South Africans what it takes, the sacrifices."