JP Pietersen will replace John Plumtree as Sharks head coach after Sunday’s Investec Champions Cup clash against Toulouse in France.
After a poor start to their Vodacom URC campaign, the franchise announced in late October that Plumtree would step down by mutual agreement at the end of the 2025-26 season. However, the 60-year-old has opted for an early exit.
“This decision was not taken lightly,” he said. “I have always been, and will always remain, a Sharks man through and through. My commitment to the jersey has been unwavering across my many years of service to the franchise.”
Sharks CEO Shaun Bryans added: “This decision taken by Plum has been made in the best interests of the Sharks, with the long-term success and stability of the team at heart. The Sharks accept his decision with respect and gratitude, and we extend our sincere thanks for his contribution, leadership, and deep care for the badge.
“Plum has played an important role in guiding our squad through a challenging and evolving period, and his influence has been invaluable. He will remain part of our high-performance system, and will continue to contribute in a capacity that is still being finalised.”
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Pietersen will assume the role of interim head coach for the remainder of the season. The former Sharks and Springbok wing coached the Currie Cup team this year.
“The Sharks have shaped my entire rugby life and stepping into this role is both an honour and a responsibility I hold with deep respect,” said Pietersen.
“Plum has given so much to this union and to me personally, and we are all grateful for his leadership and the standards he has set.
“My focus now is to provide stability, clarity and to help this team express the best of who we are. We have a united group, a proud jersey and a community that believes in us, and I’m fully committed to guiding the boys through this transition period with energy and purpose.”
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The Sharks said the process of considering potential candidates for the permanent head coach role is underway and further updates will be communicated once concluded.
Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images
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