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yesterday

JP Pietersen Named Sharks Interim Coach as Plumtree Steps Down After Toulouse

The Sharks frame the move as part of a reset to their high-performance setup.

Steve Haag/Gallo Images
The old and the new ... JP Pietersen will take over from John Plumtree as Sharks head coach. Picture: Steve Haag Sports/Gallo Images
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Ross Braude of the Hollywoodbets Sharks during the Hollywoodbets Sharks training session at Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium on November 17, 2025 in Durban, South Africa. (Photo by Steve Haag Sports/Gallo Images)

Overview

  • John Plumtree confirmed he will leave the head-coach role after Sunday’s Champions Cup trip to Toulouse, with JP Pietersen taking charge for the rest of the season.
  • Plumtree will remain in the Sharks’ high-performance system in a supportive capacity to mentor Pietersen, with his exact role to be finalised.
  • Club officials said the search for a permanent head coach is under way and updates will follow once the process concludes.
  • The Sharks selected a youthful side for Toulouse, resting several Springboks and handing out four debuts, with Nick Hatton named captain.
  • Separate reports note a prospective Japanese offer for Siya Kolisi and a 12-week ban for Eben Etzebeth, developments that could tighten squad resources.