Just In: John Plumtree will step down as Sharks head coach by mutual agreement at the end of the 2025-26 season due to…

John Plumtree will step down as Sharks head coach by mutual agreement at the end of the 2025-26 season.

Following a poor start to their URC campaign, the Sharks’ leadership team conducted “a comprehensive review” of the union’s rugby structures, engaging stakeholders at all levels.

According a Sharks statement, management found that “the problem is multi-faceted” and that long-term success “will be best served by tackling issues across the organisation rather than relying on simple fixes”.

Plumtree, who returned to the Sharks ahead of the 2023-24 season, retains “the complete backing and support of ownership, management and players”. However, he will transition into a mentoring and advisory role next year.

“My priority has always been what’s best for the Sharks and that remains my focus,” Plumtree said.

In the short term, the Sharks will appoint a technical consultant “as a matter of urgency” to assist with on-field performance and the team’s game model.

Meanwhile, director of rugby Neil Powell will focus on operational areas, including the academy, recruitment and player welfare.

Sharks CEO Shaun Bryans said the entire rugby programme would remain under review for the rest of the season.

“Our performances this season have not been good enough, and we owe it to our fans and stakeholders to acknowledge and take full responsibility – no excuses,”

He added that the Sharks remain “ambitious about the future” and that “no stone will be left unturned” in building a high-performance environment capable of sustained success.

Talks between the Sharks and Pumas coach Jimmy Stonehouse are reportedly ongoing.

The Sharks are winless after four rounds of the URC, having drawn one and lost three matches, including a 34-26 defeat to Ulster at Kings Park last Saturday.

The poor run has put head coach John Plumtree under pressure ahead of Saturday’s clash against the Scarlets in Durban.