'The start of a new and exciting era': Sharks confirm coaching set-up

The Sharks have named JP Pietersen as their permanent head coach following an interim period in charge.

The former Springboks winger took over in Durban in December after former head coach John Plumtree stood down. He has since overseen an upturn in form, winning five of seven matches including a recent double over the Stormers.

“This jersey has shaped who I am,” Pietersen said after the appointment. “The Sharks have given me everything in my career, so to be entrusted with leading this team is something I do not take lightly. I am incredibly proud, but more than that, I am hungry to keep pushing this group forward.”

Sharks chief executive officer Shaun Bryans added: “JP’s appointment is a natural progression and a decision we are extremely confident in. He has proven that he is the right man for the job, building on the strong foundations laid down by his predecessor.

“This is the start of a new and exciting era of Sharks Rugby, founded on mutual respect, passion and pride in what this jersey has meant over the years and what it will continue to stand for.

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“JP has brought a renewed focus on clarity, accountability and strong alignment within the playing group. Performance matters, and the improvement we have seen over the past two months is measurable and tangible.”

Pietersen’s permanent appointment is one of several decisions made by the club over the coaching set-up heading into next season, with his former Sharks team-mate Scott Mathie joining at the end of the season.

The former scrum-half will join as attack coach from fellow United Rugby Championship outfit Edinburgh.

The further structural changes at Kings Park will see Dave Williams take on the newly created role of general manager, while Neil Powell has been named head of junior rugby.