John Plumtree and the Sharks have had a rather disappointing start to the 2025/2026 United Rugby Championship (URC) season. During the first five rounds, they have suffered three defeats, one draw, and recently secured a victory over the Scarlets.
While coach Plumtree would have hoped that the return of international players Siya Kolisi, Eben Etzebeth, and Grant Williams would provide the team with a much-needed boost, this was far from the case.
Instead, this brought more horror when the Sharks fell short by 34-29 to a determined Ulster who fielded their former winger Werner Kok.
Grant Williams has his say
The Springboks are currently in London, where they are preparing for their match against Japan.
During a recent interview with Rugby365, Sharks scrumhalf Grant Williams was questioned on his thoughts on Plumtree vacating his role at the end of the season.
Responding to the question, Williams admitted that he was unaware that this would happen.
“Wow. I didn’t check my social media. That’s new,” Grant Williams shockingly responded.
Despite the recent criticism coming the way of the former All Blacks head coach, Williams gave credit to how he has helped to evolve his game.
“I think he has been instrumental in how he sees the game and how he wants me to play. Obviously, he coached the All Blacks as well, so he has great knowledge and understanding of the game.
“I’ve really enjoyed working with him.”
Plumtree to transition in Sharks’ structures
SuperSport reports that, depending on the team’s performance throughout the rest of the season, Plumtree will transition into a new role. Here will be overseeing the new head coach in a mentoring and advisory capacity.
