Muir considers leaving the Sharks

Sharks coach Dick Muir says that if he doesn't get the Springbok assistant post then he would consider going to another province or back to the world of business.

It emerged at the weekend that the affable Muir will not be renewing his contract with the Sharks at the end of this season and instead is focusing on moving up to the national fold.

"I've always felt that you shouldn't spend more than three or four years coaching in one place and I think it's time to move," said Muir.

"I'm really positive about the change and believe we have the players, management and coaching staff to continue being successful. If I'm able to get the Bok assistant job, we have John Plumtree and Grant Bashford still here, which shows our succession plan in place."

Asked what he would do if he didn't get the national coaching job Muir said: "Well look at this stage all I've done is put in an application after I had a chat to (Bok coach) Peter de Villiers and he asked me to.

"But, if that doesn't work out I would coach the Sharks for six months in the Currie Cup and then look at things from there. I could end up coaching somewhere else or I could go back to my business, which is based in Johannesburg."

"Really I'm flexible," Muir added.

There's no doubt that Muir's loss would impact hugely on the Sharks organisation as the former Springbok centre has helped restore some dented pride at the once ailing franchise.

Muir coached the Sharks to the Super 14 final last year and a brace of Currie Cup semi finals during his time in the hot seat.

While no silverware has landed in the King's Park trophy cabinet, Muir took over the outfit in 2004 when the team was in doldrums, after Kevin Putt's failed stint.

The signs are that the Sharks have laid the foundation for a golden era and it would be a great pity that Muir will be lost to the franchise.

Turning his attention to the Stormers this weekend Muir said he expected a physical battle up front against the Cape team on Saturday afternoon.

"I think they look a much improved side across the board since Rassie Erasmus has taken over. They certainly have more direction and a bit more structure to their play."

"They are well organised on defence and appear to be a lot tougher up front. Their pack went well against the Bulls and we can expect a hard match from them."

The Stormers lost their Super 14 opening bout to the Bulls 16-9 at Newlands while the Sharks ground out a 17-10 victory against the Western Force at the Absa Stadium on Friday night.

- Kick-Off: 5pm; TV: SS1/M-Net