By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The 2007 Rugby World Cup-winning winger JP Pietersen is expected to be appointed Hollywoodbets Sharks head coach on a permanent basis, according to Rapport.
Pietersen has been in charge since John Plumtree stepped away from the senior role at the end of last year, and is widely viewed as the frontrunner to be confirmed as head coach.
In a potential twist, Plumtree may yet remain involved with the club for another season in a consulting capacity.
The Sharks have kept details tightly under wraps following a deep review of its high-performance structures, led by Alan Zondagh, Stefan Terblanche and Grant Bashford.
Scrum coach Philip Lemmer is set to be retained, while forwards coach Warren Whiteley remains contracted long term.
Director of rugby Neil Powell, the former Blitzboks head coach, is also tied to the Sharks on a long-term deal, although his responsibilities could be adjusted.
Sharks have been conducting an extensive review of the coaching structures while searching for a permanent successor to Plumtree.
Pietersen has risen through the ranks at the Sharks following his retirement from professional rugby and is held in high regard in Durban as a young coach.