Plumtree makes swift Sharks exit

John Plumtree has left the Sharks with immediate effect, following a meeting on Tuesday to resolve the termination of his contract.

Initial reports indicated that Plumtree’s legal team would insist that he be paid out for the two-year contract extension he had been promised by current CEO Brian van Zyl, following the recent announcement by Van Zyl’s successor, John Smit, that the New Zealand-born coach’s contract would not be renewed.

The Sharks confirmed that discussions were held between representatives of Plumtree and the union on Tuesday and that it was mutually and amicably agreed to part ways with immediate effect.

However, the terms of the agreement concluded were said to be confidential.

Stephen Saad, chairman of the Sharks said: "We thank John for his wonderful contribution to the Sharks over many years.

"He has been a loyal and faithful employee and the Sharks have benefitted greatly by his input.

“We are also grateful for the impeccable manner in which he has conducted himself during challenging times in the last while.

"We wish John all the best in his future endeavours."

While unconfirmed reports have surfaced that Brad MacLeod-Henderson would be named head coach for the upcoming Currie Cup campaign, there was no indication as to who will take over the head coaching reins from Plumtree for the remainder of the Super Rugby season.

The squad trained under assistant coaches Hugh Reece-Edwards and Grant Bashford and the duo seem set to share the duties for Saturday’s home clash with the Blues.

Sharks captain Keegan Daniel said he and his teammates remain fully focused on Saturday’s encounter and their on-field preparation.