After less than 12 months in Belfast, two-time World Cup winner Steven Kitshoff could be eyeing up a return to South Africa this summer. According to a report over the weekend from Afrikaans newspaper Rapport, Kitshoff met up with Stormers coach John Dobson about a potential return.
The two were reportedly seen at a restaurant in Cape Town ahead of Ulster's match against the Stormers, which they lost narrowly 13-7. The possibility of an early return was discussed according to Rapport. The Stormers have received new investment from equity partner Red Disa and they are also hoping the SARU will help finance part of the deal to get Kitshoff out of his Ulster contract.
Steven Kitshoff left the Stormers last summer to join Ulster on a three-year deal. He was captain of the Cape Town-based side and lead the side as they won the inaugural URC season back in 2022. He joined the Belfast side to a lot fanfare and made his debut shortly after winning his second World Cup with South Africa. Since 2016 Kitshoff has played 83 times for the Springboks and was a key part of their back-to-back World Cup triumphs in 2019 and 2023.
Steven Kitschoff rumours add to uncertainty at Ulster
Since joining Ulster the 32-year-old loosehead prop has made 12 appearances and has been praised for his performances. However, Ulster have well documented financial problems heading into next season that have seen Billy Burns announce his departure to Munster this summer and heavy rumours circulate around the future of Ireland International Tom O'Toole.
Ulster's problems don't stop there as CEO John Petrie left his post last week and Ulster currently don't have a coach for next season after Dan McFarland was replaced on an interim basis by Ireland U20s coach Richie Murphy.
Kitshoff is reportedly one of the top earners at Ulster and although it may be to the detriment of their on-pitch production, his departure would help Ulster financially. It would be sad to see Steven Kitshoff depart so soon, but perhaps his move could accelerate Tom O'Toole's transition to loosehead, which would provide some help for Andrew Porter.
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