Sharks defence coach Omar Mouneimne has been released from his contract to join Stade Français.

The Sharks' defence improved under Mouneimne this season, with their tackle success rate of 86.3% the fourth best in Super Rugby.

'Omar has worked tremendously hard on our defensive structures over the past few months,' said director of rugby Gary Gold. 'His efforts resulted in us being one of the top defensive teams in the 2016 Super Rugby competition.'

Mouneimne added: 'Never in my life have I felt this truly accepted as I did at The Sharks. This is truly a wonderful family environment and I would like to thank Gary Gold for giving me the wonderful opportunity to join this team.

'My thanks are also extended to [CEO] John Smit for always having an open-door policy and assisting me, the Sharks staff for being unbelievable, but most of all I would like to thank the players for their tireless work ethic and for accepting my methods. This place is world-class.'

Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images