Plumtree set to step aside

The Sharks have announced that John Plumtree (above) will step down as head coach “by mutual agreement” at the end of the season, following two subpar campaigns and the start of what appears to be a third.

- Nicholas Zaal

He will fulfil a “mentoring and advisory role” for the rest of the season.

Furthermore, the union “will engage a technical coach consultant as a matter of urgency to provide input across on-field performance, with particular focus on the game model.”

Director of rugby Neil Powell will focus on key operational areas, including the junior and academy programmes, player recruitment and retention, logistics, medical and rehab, travel, planning, and budget management.

CEO Shaun Bryans said the entire rugby programme will remain under critical review.