Plumtree insists Sharks role is no backward step: 'No better place to win trophies'

An "honoured and privileged" John Plumtree was unperturbed by the perception that his return as Sharks head coach represents a step-down in his career trajectory.

The Durbanites on Thursday officially unveiled the popular New Zealander as the candidate to, somewhat belatedly, take over from Sean Everitt and get a pedigreed if unbalanced senior squad back on track.

Everitt was axed as far back as November.

Plumtree most recently still served as one of Ian Foster's assistants at the All Blacks and has gained considerable and varied insights over the past decade by working in Japan, New Zealand and Ireland.

"I certainly don't see it as going backwards," the 57-year-old said from his current base in Wellington, which he'll leave in July.

"I'd say it's even more exciting now. I'm comfortable in Durban, I know the people.

"I can understand why some people might argue the move is a step-down. For me, it's not and that's probably the only thing that counts." 

There is considerable nostalgia attached to his reappointment as his near six-year reign between 2008 and 2012, which many felt was ended prematurely by then CEO John Smit, brought two Currie Cup titles and a Super Rugby final.

In hindsight, that period would prove to be one of the Sharks' most stable as his departure would bring in a decade where only the mercurial Robert du Preez lasted as head coach for more than three years.   

As a result, a sense prevails that Plumtree has unfinished business at his self-proclaimed "rugby home", though he doesn't buy into that narrative.

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"I don't think I have a score to settle, it's more around me really enjoying what I do and hopefully having the people around me enjoying