Mr Price bites at Sharks sponsor deal

The Sharks' search for new team sponsors has ended close to home with the clinching of a massive R54-million, seven-year deal with Durban-based clothing retail giants Mr Price.

The deal, which has yet to be made public, has already paid dividends. On Saturday Mark Andrews and his team defeated the Stormers 23-19 in Wellington in their final league fixture.

That wrapped up a second-place finish behind the table-topping Brumbies and ensured the Sharks a lucrative Vodacom Super 12 rugby semifinal at home to the Cats next weekend.

It was no coincidence too that they sported jerseys bearing the name of Mr Price's surfwear range, Red, in a prominent position across the chest.

The last time that happened was when Canon were the official sponsors.

Union officials were tight-lipped about the deal on Saturday.

Kevin Dunkley, president of the Natal Rugby Union, denied any knowledge of it.

Megan Harris, the NRU's public relations manager, professed similar ignorance. However, she did add: "There will be an announcement next week."

The message changed later in the day when officials said an announcement would be made on Monday.

Another official said the potential sponsors would be a "young, trendy brand that wants to be associated with a young, trendy team."

Attempts to contact Jeremy Thomson, the former Sharks centre who works for Mr Price as a marketing manager, for confirmation of the deal proved fruitless.