Sharks owner Marco Masotti heaps praise on John Plumtree ahead of role change

This week, the Durban franchise released a statement revealing a review of structures, translating to Plumtree moving out of the head coach job and into an advisory role.

While the Sharks did reach the semifinals of the United Rugby Championship last season, the decision comes off the back of several recent lacklustre URC performances. The Bok-laden club are currently in 13th place on the table with just one win from their five outings.

But Masotti, a passionate Sharks fan himself, took to social media to remind fans that Plumtree enjoyed some success - winning the Challenge Cup, Currie Cup and the URC's South African Shield - and has strong bonds with the club.

Plumtree featured in 80 matches for the Sharks during his playing days, returning later to coach them to the 2008 Currie Cup title and the 2012 Super Rugby final.

"Coach Plumtree arrived at the Sharks in 1988," wrote Masotti on X.

"He cares deeply about our club and is a special coach.  We won 3 major trophies since he returned to Durban, and our club is stronger and more resilient because of him.

"There is a lot of rugby left this season - and I hope our fans will join me in standing behind our coaches and players for the remainder of the season."

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