The treatment and omission of Springbok hooker Chiliboy Ralepelle during the latter stages of the Currie Cup has come under scrutiny at the Sharks.

According to the Sunday Times, Sharks coach Robert du Preez has been accused of poor player management, while questions have been raised over his decision to overlook Ralepelle upon his return to the Durban-based side.

Ralepelle returned to the Sharks after forming part of the Boks’ match 23 for the final two Rugby Championship Tests, but Du Preez opted not to pick him during the Currie Cup playoffs. Instead, Franco Marais started at hooker, with Akker van der Merwe on the bench.

The Sunday Times reports that Ralepelle took up the issue with the coach, and that a high-level meeting took place to address the matter.

There is apparently also unrest over certain aspects of Du Preez’s management style, and the manner in which he addresses players.

In a statement, Sharks communications manager Novashni Chetty said: ‘Chiliboy had concerns about his non-selection for the semi-final and a meeting was set up on management’s request with Chili to engage with him on the matter and address these concerns.

‘At this mentioned meeting Chiliboy was given clear reasons for his non-selection and was given the opportunity to ask any questions he had.

‘The above is exactly what transpired with Chiliboy and the Sharks have nothing to hide. Our policy is always to be open and transparent with our players.

‘Our head coach leads by example and our environment demands a strong work ethic, respect for each other and our jersey.’

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