The 'astute rugby brain' which Sharks hope will give their attack more bite

The Sharks have unveiled a new addition to their coaching panel for 2019 – completing their Super Rugby roster.

David Williams has been appointed the attack coach.

Robert du Preez remains the head coach and will be assisted by Ricardo Loubscher (backline), Jaco Pienaar (forwards), Braam van Straaten (defence) and Williams (attack).

Williams has previously worked with Japanese club Kobe Steelers and in the Premiership with London Irish and Bath.

He also had stints with the Cheetahs and Southern Kings.

He was the Kings’ attack coach in 2016, which saw them cause a number of upsets in their final year of Super Rugby – before moving on the Pro14.

“We went through a thorough interview process to appoint a new attack coach and David really impressed us with his vision,” Du Preez said.

“He has an astute rugby brain and will add tremendous value to our attacking play.

“He joined us on Monday [this week] and has fitted in well,” the coach added.

He replaces veteran coach Dick Muir, who was the Sharks’ backline consultant for 2018.

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The Sharks will enjoy the benefits of having a settled squad in 2019, as well as the momentum of Currie Cup success in 2018.

The three-year plan, put in place for 2017 to 2019, has already started to pay dividends for the Sharks.

The last four competitions – Super Rugby and Currie Cup (twice) – have seen the Sharks reach the play-off stages in all four, with appearances in consecutive Currie Cup finals – the climax of which was the victory over Western Province at Newlands in October.

After a short break, the Sharks have commenced their pre-season training last Monday, in preparation for the 2019 season.

The Sharks will play two warm-up matches early February 2019 in preparation for their Super Rugby tournament opener against the Sunwolves on Saturday, February 16 in Singapore.

Credit: @rugby365

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