April behaviour 'unacceptable'

The 26-year-old playmaker was left out of the team for Saturday's Currie Cup Round Seven encounter with Western Province at Newlands over a "breach of team protocols".

The Sharks did not divulge the full details, but coach Robert du Preez admitted it was similar to last year – when the young man failed to arrive in time for team meeting.

Du Preez confirmed the team's leadership group backed the decision to drop him.

"Due to a disciplinary issue, Garth April has been omitted from the team to play in Cape Town on Saturday," a Sharks statement said.  

"This decision was taken by our player leadership group in consultation with the coaches and team manager.

"Our team culture demands a strong work ethic and respect for one's self and the team is a non-negotiable. Garth is a talented player and we hope that he emerges from this with renewed focus.

The coach confirmed that April had breached team protocol.

"This is not the first time it's happened," Du Preez said.

"I had a meeting with the leadership group and we jointly decided that he wouldn't partake in this weekend's game. It's very disappointing and it's unacceptable.

"We have strong stances on work ethic, team work and respect, and this [his absence] will be on-going until he is prepared to come and talk to the team and me."

@rugby365com