The Sharks have confirmed their new coaching and high-performance structures.
At the centre of it is JP Pietersen, who has been appointed permanent head coach after serving in an interim capacity since John Plumtree stepped down.
“This jersey has shaped who I am,” said the former Sharks and Springbok wing. “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.”
CEO Shaun Bryans said the decision followed a formal review of the Sharks’ high-performance system.
“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.
“Performance matters, and the improvement we have seen over the past two months is measurable and tangible.”
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The Sharks also confirmed that Scott Mathie will join from Edinburgh next season as attack coach, while Dave Williams – who recently accepted a consultancy role with the USA Eagles – moves into a newly created general manager role overseeing high performance across senior and junior rugby.
Former Sharks director of rugby Neil Powell has been appointed head of junior rugby, tasked with strengthening the talent pathway.
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Off the field, the Sharks have bolstered their executive team with the appointment of Rory Duncan as chief of staff from June.
The former Cheetahs CEO will focus on strategic coordination and governance alignment across the business.
“Rory brings proven executive leadership experience within professional rugby,” said Bryans. “His appointment strengthens our operational discipline and ensures tighter alignment between strategy and delivery.”
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Controlling owner Marco Masotti underlined the broader vision.
“We want to be special. Our goal is a rugby business that ensures that the Sharks compete for a trophy in every competition that we play in, including the Investec Champions Cup and likely World Club Cup.
“Our high-performance plan addresses the many facets and challenges of our rugby business. It draws on the storied history of the Sharks and our unique culture and ambition to take our club into the future.”
Warrior Nation, JP Pietersen leads the way into an exciting new chapter!
From game-changing moments on the pitch to calling the action in the coach’s booth, he’s always been black-and-white
We’re with you every step, Coach!
pic.twitter.com/y29SLplOgy
— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) February 18, 2026
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
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The Sharks have confirmed their new coaching and high-performance structures.
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