John Plumtree returns to Sharks for second stint as head coach

The Sharks on Thursday named John Plumtree as their new head coach.

This will be the New Zealander's second spell in charge of the Sharks, having been the head coach in Durban between 2008 and 2012.

The Sharks announced in a statement that Plumtree will join them on 1 July, allowing Neil Powell to revert to his director of rugby role.

Plumtree will assisted by the experienced Dave Williams, who also returns to the Sharks for a second stint.

READ | Rugby Australia boss to duel SA Rugby's Mark Alexander for powerful role at World Rugby?

"For us it's the start of a new era getting Plum to head up the senior coaching structures with Dave Williams coming in as an assistant coach," Powell said.

"This is an exciting time and a great opportunity to welcome back two vastly experienced coaches that understand our culture, the environment and know what it takes to wear this jersey.

"Plum is an experienced and astute coach that has coached at the highest level. We are delighted to have him return to the Sharks set-up and lead our senior team. I am sure he is looking forward to hitting the ground running in July, as we prepare for the new season ahead."

Plum is returning to the tank and ready to tackle the new season! Welcome back, Coach John Plumtree ??????: https://t.co/xWtZb4Iz4I #FearTheFin #BackOnTheDottedLine pic.twitter.com/hcqGcj4v0r

The 57-year-old Plumtree was last year relieved of his duties as All Blacks assistant to Ian Foster following their historic home series defeat to Ireland.

Plumtree was Sharks head coach between 2008 and 2012, before he was sacked by incoming CEO John Smit at the time. He also had stints as assistant coach at Ireland, the Hurricanes and Japan.

"Durban has always been my home away from home for many years