Brendan Venter

Gary Gold

The Cell C Sharks have made two key appointments – Gary Gold as Director of Rugby and Brendan Venter as Technical Director.

Cell C Sharks Chief Executive Officer, John Smit, confirmed the appointment of former the Springbok assistant coach, Gold, as the Sharks’ new Director of Rugby.

However, the appointment of Venter – who guided the Sharks to the Currie Cup title in 2013 – is the more interesting addition to their backroom staff.

The 47-year-old Gold, who is currently coach of Japanese Top League club Kobelco Steelers, has signed a three-year contract – from 2015 to 2017.

“Gary is an experienced coach who brings a wealth of knowledge and an impressive level of commitment to his new role,” the Sharks CEO, Smit said.

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“Having worked closely with him in the Springbok set-up, I found him to be approachable with a high regard for player welfare and management as well as meticulous attention to detail in regard to the game,” Smit said of the four years Gold served under Peter de Villiers – while he, Smit, was Bok captain.

“We are delighted that he has agreed to join the Sharks family.”

Gold described his appointment as a “massive honour” and really humbling to be considered for such a position.

“I see it as a really exciting career opportunity, and it is fantastic to be able to move home where my family is,” Gold said.

“But it was important for me to sort everything out with my Japanese club, and fortunately they were very understanding.”

Venter, who Gary Gold worked with at London Irish, will also be back with the Sharks – as Technical Director – after his stint in 2013.

Smith did not state the period of Venter’s stay.

In 2013 he was involved just during the Currie Cup season.

“The team environment he created and the success he achieved with us in a short space of time speaks volumes about his character, commitment and general rugby acumen,” Smit said of Venter’s appointment.

“As I have previously stated, we will do whatever we can to keep him involved with us for as long as possible.”