United Rugby Championship: Scarlets’ Plumtree eager to beat father’s Sharks

Plumtree was born in Swansea and spent the first three years of his life in the Welsh city, while his father John, a former South Africa sevens international, coached Swansea RFC.

Before being appointed Sharks head coach for a second time in 2023, Plumtree senior spent time as an assistant coach with Ireland, Japan and New Zealand.

“Dad’s always been a sort of that pillar in the background that’s always helped me out with my rugby stuff throughout my career and he still does,” his son added.

“Obviously over the last five months I haven’t been out on the field, but before that we’d always catch up on a Sunday and he would give me a couple pointers on what he thinks I did well and what he thinks I could do better, and that won’t change this weekend either.

“I know that he was a bit of a loose forward/lock. I probably wouldn’t say that I’m too far away from him. I’d say I’m a bit better though!”

Plumtree is hoping his return to the team will coincide with an upturn in fortunes for Scarlets, who go in to Friday’s encounter with just three league wins all season.

“The five months did go quick,” added Plumtree.

“I’ve missed a lot of rugby in that time and I’m just stoked that I’m back now and I’m feeling good, and I’ve got another five games left of the season.

“I just really want to put my hand up for the team and start looking forward to getting back out on the field.

“Winning is always really good for the team environment. If we can, we can pull together some performances that we’re proud of.”