The board of directors of Natal Sharks and the South African Rugby Union (Saru) have asked Kevin Putt to step down as head coach of the Sharks Super 12 regional team with immediate effect.
Sharks CEO Brian van Zyl said on Wednesday the decision was taken by the board in conjunction with Saru after ”a thorough and in-depth evaluation of the options available to the Sharks in the 2005 Super 12 campaign”.
”No decision that will affect a person’s career or livelihood is ever an easy one, but much soul-searching was done in the best interest of the team, the brand and the ever-passionate and loyal Sharks fans,” said Van Zyl.
Putt said in response: ”As a coach, one is always aware that the time to move on will arrive, but my heart and soul has, and always will, be with the Sharks, and if the board believes that this move is in the best interests of the team and our supporters, then I will gracefully make way for someone else to take over.
”I wish the new coach and players all the very best and offer my full support.”
Van Zyl said: ”The board would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank Kevin for his loyalty and commitment over the last three years.”
Past home-grown Sharks and Springbok great Dick Muir has been asked to step into the breach and take over the reins as head coach with immediate effect.
Saru has given the decision its full backing and has seconded Ian McIntosh to assist and advise Muir wherever necessary to get the squad playing at its best.
The Sharks have also secured the services of Rod McQueen, former national Australian coach, to assist with the Antipodes leg of the tournament. — Sapa