Robert du Preez and Sharks part ways

Sharks head coach Robert du Preez has parted company with the Super Rugby franchise on mutual terms, the club announced on Wednesday.

After five seasons at the Durban outfit, initially as an assistant coach and thereafter as head coach of the Sharks, Du Preez will move on to pastures new.

“The Sharks thank Robert for his contribution over the past few years and what he managed to achieve by moulding a young group of players. He leaves the Sharks with our good wishes for the next chapter in his coaching career,” said Gary Teichmann, CEO of the Sharks.

The Sharks finished last season in the play-off places but lost out to the Brumbies in Canberra in the quarter-finals, which ended their campaign.

Du Preez reflected: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Sharks and I am proud of what we have achieved. I would have loved to put more silverware in the cabinet, but sometimes injuries to key players, the bounce of the ball or decisions going against your team prevents that.

“I look forward to the next phase of my coaching career and wish the team well for the future. They can always count on my support.”