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Sharks Confirm Plumtree to Step Down at Season’s End as Management Overhaul Begins

The decision follows a comprehensive external-informed review of rugby operations.

Overview

  • John Plumtree will leave the head-coach role by mutual agreement after the 2025/26 season and then move into a mentoring and advisory position.
  • He will continue coaching through the campaign while the Sharks urgently appoint a technical consultant to refine on-field performance and the game model.
  • Director of rugby Neil Powell has been assigned oversight of key operations including the academy, recruitment and retention, logistics, medical and rehab, travel, planning, and budget management.
  • The leadership changes follow a poor start to the URC season, with one win from five matches and the team in 13th place.
  • CEO Shaun Bryans says accountability spans the entire organisation and confirms the rugby programme will remain under critical review for the rest of the season.