The Stormers have completed a clever bit of business in snapping up the services of Springbok hooker Bongi Mbonambi, who has parted ways with the Sharks amid a dispute related to a disciplinary issue.

Mbonambi earned 74 Stormers caps between 2015 and 2021 and makes his return to Cape Town this week. He is available for selection with immediate effect and is set to feature in the United Rugby Championship encounter with Ulster at DHL Stadium on Saturday.

With hookers André-Hugo Venter, Deon Fourie, Lukhanyo Vokozela, Almero Keizer and Luca Bakkes all injured and JJ Kotzé currently serving a suspension, Mbonambi’s arrival is as timely as it is significant.

Stormers welcome arrival of Bongi Mbonambi

Although the Stormers will be incredibly grateful to have been able to seize the opportunity to sign Mbonambi, it is interesting that he has only penned a one-year contract.

The veteran hooker will turn 36 in February, and so perhaps that is a factor, but it does mean he may only play one full season with the Stormers.

Director of Rugby John Dobson said that Mbonambi will slot straight in this week.

“We all know the quality that Bongi brings and it is fantastic that we were able to arrange this deal at such short notice. We are grateful to both Bongi and the Sharks for helping to make this happen.

“Bongi became a Springbok while playing for us and has proven himself among the best in the world in the middle of the front row.

“We have been hit hard with both injuries and suspension to our hookers, so we are delighted to welcome Bongi back to the fold,” he said. 

Although Mbonambi fell out of favour at the Sharks, apparently due to a misconduct allegation and a breakdown in his relationship with coach JP Pietersen, the Durban club said both parties ultimately would part ways on ‘amicable terms’.

Sharks CEO Shaun Bryans said: “Bongi is a Rugby World Cup-winning Springbok whose contribution to South African rugby speaks for itself. On behalf of everyone at the Sharks, I want to thank Bongi for his valued contribution to the club during his time in Durban. We wish Bongi every success in the next chapter of his career.”

“As a club, our focus remains firmly on the current season and on building the identity and team culture that Head Coach JP Pietersen and the squad are driving.”