Talks between the Sharks and Pumas coach Jimmy Stonehouse are reportedly ongoing.
The Sharks are winless after four rounds of the URC, having drawn one and lost three matches, including a 34-26 defeat to Ulster at Kings Park last Saturday.
The poor run has put head coach John Plumtree under pressure ahead of Saturday’s clash against the Scarlets in Durban.
It was initially revealed in late September that Stonehouse would join the Sharks in an advisory capacity, with Plumtree describing the Pumas boss as “a thorough rugby man and a bit old school like me.”
At the time, the Sharks coach said Stonehouse would “watch over the group” and share his experience during the team’s early-season tour.
AFRICA PICKS: Keo reflects on URC accumulator
However, that arrangement never materialised.
Speaking to Rugby365, Stonehouse said he only learned of his supposed appointment through media reports.
“After that, there was a conversation with me about when I can travel abroad,” he explained.
The timing proved difficult, with Stonehouse set to coach the Pumas in the Cheetahs’ Challenge Series. Plans for him to link up with the Sharks after their opening tour match fell through when the Pumas’ fixtures against Portugal and Georgia were cancelled.
STATE OF THE URC: Bok-heavy Sharks face mini-crisis
“Try as they might, the Sharks could not arrange a visa for me to join them abroad, and I am still in Nelspruit,” said Stonehouse, adding that he’s been amused to see pundits questioning his “impact” at the Sharks despite never setting foot in their camp.
According to Rugby365, discussions between the two parties are continuing.
Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images
The post Stonehouse heading to Sharks? appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Talks between the Sharks and Pumas coach Jimmy Stonehouse are reportedly ongoing.
The post Stonehouse heading to Sharks? appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
