Blood in the Tank – Sharks recognise a ‘multifaceted’ problem as Plumtree and Powell set for new roles

THE Sharks will conduct a forensic analysis of their business as they come to grips with a disappointing start to their United Rugby Championship campaign, with coach John Plumtree and Director of Rugby Neil Powell hardly the only ones going under the spotlight.

- MIKE GREENAWAY

Plumtree would have every right to feel hard done by if he were the only one held responsible — apart from Powell, who is to take up a new position further down the ladder — and it is significant that a coach of his experience is to be kept on in a "mentoring and advisory role" at the union he has served so loyally.

It has been confirmed that Plumtree will step down as head coach at the end of the season.

The Sharks said in a release: "The leadership team has conducted a comprehensive review of The Sharks' rugby structures, engaging multiple stakeholders across all levels of the operation.

"Management's assessment is that the problem is multifaceted, and we are clear that the long-term success of The Sharks will be best served by tackling issues across the organisation rather than relying on simple fixes."

In some ways, Plumtree has been made the scapegoat because he has been working in a flawed setup with not a great deal of support and a player roster top-heavy with Springboks, while many of the emerging youngsters are not yet up to URC standard.