The New Zealander will start his new tenure at the Shark Tank on 1 July 2023, and he will be assisted by Dave Williams, who previously worked at the Toyota Cheetahs.

The Director of Rugby, Neil Powell, has been in charge of the team since the sacking of Sean Everitt earlier in the year, with the latter having moved to Pretoria where he is working at the Bulls.

Plumtree was the Head Coach of the Sharks from 2008 to 2012, before moving back to his native New Zealand. Since his departure more than a decade ago, Plumtree has worked with national teams of Ireland and Japan and more recently he was an assistant at the All Blacks.

Plumtree, who is still in New Zealand said he is excited about his return to the franchise and he will be committed to achieving the objectives they have set in place.

“Durban has always been my home away from home for many years and I have the fondest memories of my time here both as a player and a coach. I look forward to returning to The Sharks set-up and working with a talented group of players.

“The Sharks are a proud global brand and naturally everyone associated with the brand wants results. Excellence is non-negotiable and I am fully committed to doing everything I can to achieve our objectives and make our fans proud.”

Meanwhile, on Saturday the Sharks will face Leinster in Ireland in the quarter-finals of the United Rugby Championship.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport