Sharks would 'welcome' Jake
The Sharks have opened the front door for Jake White to return to the franchise.
This follows in the wake of confirmation that the Brumbies have released the World Cup-winning former Springbok coach from the final two years of his contract in Canberra.
Following the shock announcement of his departure White was linked with several teams in South Africa and France, with Western Province quick to distance themselves from the coach.
However, the Sharks confirmed that they are willing to talk to White..
"Here at the Sharks we have a definite plan for our team," Sharks CEO John Smit said in a statement.
"Could Jake White add value? Of course he can.
"He is a very successful coach with an amazing track record.
"We would welcome an opportunity to engage with him, should it so arise."
The statement did not make it clear what role is being envisaged for White.
The Durban-based franchise have in former World Cup-winning Bok centre Brendan Venter a newly appointed Director of Rugby.
However. media speculation suggested White could take a more "hands-on" role and Venter could take an "oversight" position.
Apart from White's obvious connection with the CEO, Smit – when they won the World Cup in 2007 as coach and captain of the Boks – White also had a brief stint as an assistant with the Sharks more than a decade ago.
* Meanwhile the Brumbies confirmed in an official statement that White has been released from the final two years of his contract.
White requested the release last Friday, from South Africa, and has since been in touch with the Brumbies Chief Executive Andrew Fagan and senior players.
Fagan said he was "disappointed" to hear White would not be returning to Canberra to honour the final two years of his contract.
"I'd have to say that I was shocked when Jake called to tell me that he was intending to stay in South Africa," Fagan said.
"We are well into our planning for next season and have lots of great things happening on and off the field as we build on the momentum of making this year's final.
"To have Jake decide that he wants to pursue his international coaching ambitions from South Africa at this late stage is disappointing. He has achieved a great deal for the UC Brumbies' and we felt he certainly had more to offer."
