On April 27, 2025, rugby fans witnessed an unusual moment of drama in Japan’s League One, where South African star Cheslin Kolbe, playing for Suntory Sungoliath, made a glaring error during a match against Toyota Verblitz. The match concluded with Suntory Sungoliath securing a solid 45-28 victory, but Kolbe’s blunder overshadowed the win.
Kolbe, who is no stranger to high-pressure situations, found himself in a familiar yet awkward position when he dropped the ball while attempting to score a try. At the 26th minute, with Suntory leading 14-7, Kolbe received a brilliant pass from his fly-half, Keisuke Moriya, and dashed toward the try line. As he approached the posts, seemingly on the verge of an easy score, he inexplicably lost control of the ball, committing a forward knock-on that left fans and teammates in disbelief.
This incident has reignited discussions about Kolbe’s previous controversial moment during the 2023 Rugby World Cup quarter-finals, where he blocked a conversion kick by French player Thomas Ramos, a play that ultimately contributed to France’s narrow 29-28 loss. Kolbe’s actions in that match had sparked heated debates among fans and analysts alike, with many calling it a pivotal moment that cost the French team their chance at advancing.
Reflecting on his latest mishap, Kolbe may find some solace in the fact that his team still triumphed in the match against Toyota Verblitz. Despite the error, Suntory Sungoliath managed to dominate the game, with Kolbe contributing to the scoreline through other means, including four successful conversions from his teammates. The win was crucial as it secured their spot in the playoffs of the Japan Rugby League.
Kolbe’s journey has been remarkable since he joined Suntory Sungoliath in 2023, following his successful stints with Stade Toulousain and RC Toulon. His move to Japan was seen as an opportunity to further showcase his talents in a different rugby environment, and despite this recent slip-up, his overall performance has been noteworthy.
In the aftermath of his blunder, South African media have not held back, labeling the moment as an “embarrassing error.” Yet, Kolbe’s resilience and ability to bounce back are qualities that have defined his career. His fans, while cringing at the mistake, are likely to remember his contributions to the sport and his role in South Africa's World Cup victory in 2023.
As the playoffs approach, Kolbe and his teammates will need to focus on their upcoming challenges. The Suntory Sungoliath’s path to the championship will undoubtedly be scrutinized, and Kolbe’s performance will be a focal point for both supporters and critics. The question remains: can he shake off this embarrassing moment and lead his team to glory?
Looking ahead, Suntory Sungoliath will need Kolbe at his best if they hope to contend for the title. His experience and skillset are invaluable assets, and as he prepares for the playoffs, the rugby world will be watching closely. Will Kolbe rise to the occasion, or will this moment linger in the minds of fans as a cautionary tale?
In conclusion, while Kolbe’s error was a talking point in the aftermath of the match, the reality is that Suntory Sungoliath has advanced and will continue to compete for the championship. As they gear up for the playoffs, the team will look to build on their successes and learn from their missteps, with Kolbe at the forefront of their efforts.
