Sharks coach clarifies Venter role

Sharks head coach Sean Everitt has shed further light on former Springbok assistant coach Brendan Venter’s role within the team.

SARugbymag.co.za reported on Wednesday that Venter will be returning to the Sharks, where he served as director of rugby in 2013, and led the Durban-based side to a memorable Currie Cup triumph in the final against Western Province at Newlands.

During an online media conference on Thursday, Everitt confirmed that Venter had linked up with the team, but added that he would be utilised as a consultant.

‘Brendan is more of a consultant than a technical advisor,’ Everitt said.

‘I think it is good for us as coaches to have someone to bounce ideas off from the outside. He looks at the game from an external point of view out of the group with no emotions.

‘He is pretty much a soundboard for me. He has really good advice to offer but, at the same time, we will lean on him with certain questions.

‘It is truly great to bring him on board. He knows the Sharks set-up really well after being here in 2013. He is popular among the players, so it is good to have him here to bounce ideas off.’

Venter has had coaching stints at London Irish, Saracens and Italy, and also served in a technical advisory capacity at a host of South African teams.

Although he was an extremely popular presence at Kings Park, the former Springbok was unable to continue in a coaching role due to his responsibilities at his medical practice in the Western Cape.

Photo: Gallo Images