Eben Etzebeth to assist coaching staff during 12-match Sharks suspension

Springbok and Sharks lock Eben Etzebeth will be gainfully employed at the Shark Tank during his 12-match suspension, according to coach John Plumtree.

The 34-year-old cannot play for the Sharks until their away match against the Ospreys on April 18. Unfortunately for all concerned, his ban ends on March 28, a day after the Sharks host Cardiff, and they then have a fortnight off.

“It is obviously far from ideal. Eben is devastated,” Plumtree said.

“Losing one of our star players is a big blow for us. He is an important part of our tight five and our leadership group. He is very remorseful. He knows what an impact this can have on our club.”

Plumtree said that Etzebeth will remain involved with the Sharks during his suspension.

“I texted him three or four times last night and said, “Okay, big boy, we have to use you in another way now,” Plumtree said.

“So what that looks like, I'm not sure yet. But part of it will be doing some coaching in the juniors and helping us out. He can help out Warren Whiteley (lineout coach). But yeah, we'll put him to work. I think he understands how important that is to everybody after what happened.”

Plumtree said the way forward will be properly addressed when the squad gets home next week from their Sunday Champions Cup match against Toulouse.

“At least we know what the ban is now and can plan accordingly around his absence. We have to relook at our lock stocks. We have injured locks in Corne Rahl and Deon Slabbert, who will hopefully become available to us by the end of December, plus we have Jason Jenkins, Emile van Heerden, and Marvin Orie.

“If we can get four or five fit locks by Christmas, that would be great.

“Eben will take a break now to be with his young family, but we will get him doing some tasks for us, which will help all concerned.”