image source, hugh evans picture agency
Tyne Plumtree will aim to claim his family's 'bragging rights' when his Scarlets side host his father John's Sharks team in the United Rugby Championship (URC) on Friday.
The two-capped Wales back-row returned to action for the Scarlets in last week's defeat to Edinburgh after five months out with a shoulder injury.
The 24-year-old is aiming to make up for lost time and finish the season on a high note, one place better than his father.
“Prior to that, there has been some discussion between me and my father over the last few weeks,” Plumtree said.
“There's definitely a little bit of bragging going on at the dinner table. If I come back, I might finally get to be at the head of the table at dinner.” [the family home in] New Zealand is great.
“But in terms of preparing and preparing for the game, it's really just another game. So it's a really nice little opportunity for us, so I don't think about it too much, but I have a job to do. “do.
“Stayed at the hotel on Sunday [where his parents are staying] Because I haven't seen them since September, so it's been really nice to get to know them over the last few months and how things are going.There's no animosity at all, it's just a joke between us.
“He's definitely going to tell me what to focus on this week in terms of my game and we'll be having a beer and talking about the game on Friday night after the game.”
image source, Characteristics of Rex
Plumtree was born in Swansea and spent the first three years of his life in the Welsh city while his father, John, was a former South African Sevens international and coach at Swansea RFC.
Prior to being appointed as the Sharks' second head coach in 2023, Plumtree Senior served as an assistant coach in Ireland, Japan and New Zealand.
“My dad has always been kind of the unsung hero and has always helped me with my rugby throughout my career and continues to do so,” the son added.
“Obviously, I haven't been on the field for the last five months, but up until then we always caught up on Sunday and he said some things he thought I did well and what he thought I could do. “Let's try harder,'' and this weekend will be no different.
“I know he was a bit of a loose forward/lock. Maybe I can’t say I’m too far from him. I think he’s gotten a little better though!”
Plumtree hopes his return coincides with an upturn in the Scarlets' fortunes, who head into Friday's encounter having won just three league games all season.
“The last five months have gone by so quickly,” Plumtree added.
“I missed a lot of rugby during that time, but now I’m back and I’m feeling good and there’s five games left in the season so I’m really happy.
“I want to put my hand up for the team and look forward to getting back on the field.
“Winning is always very good for a team environment. Hopefully we can put together some performances that we're proud of.”
