Steven Kitshoff in talks over shock Ulster exit after just one year at Ravenhill
Steven Kitshoff's departure would be a major blow for Ulster
Steven Kitshoff could become a shock addition to the player exodus from Ulster this summer and be on his way back to former club the Stormers.
According to reports from South Africa, the Stormers are in exploratory talks which could result in the two-time World Cup winner swapping Belfast for Cape Town with two years remaining on his Ravenhill deal.
The possible departure of Ulster’s marquee signing would represent a significant blow for the troubled club who over the last month have already dispensed with the services of head coach Dan McFarland and CEO Jonny Petrie.
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It is believed that the current turmoil at Ulster, with an anticipated rebuild being embarked upon both on and off the field, has created a potentially favourable environment for Kitshoff’s contract to be rolled up early.
Also believed to be in the mix to bring the 32-year-old back to the Stormers after just a year away is an equity deal with a consortium which has brought a massive cash injection to Western Province Professional rugby.
It has been reported that exploratory discussions took place last week which may pave the way for the loosehead prop to make a surprise exit at season’s end.
Kitshoff, whose signing was announced in November 2022, played his final game for the Stormers after losing last season’s URC Final to Munster and then hooked up with Ulster after the conclusion of October’s World Cup which brought him his second winner’s medal.
He played his 12th game for the province on Saturday when returning to face his former club in Cape Town, a match Ulster narrowly lost 13-7.
