http://www.rugbyheaven.smh.com.au/n...n-blow-for-Reds/2005/04/06/1112489552539.html
Sharpe defects in blow for Reds
Wednesday, April 6, 2005
Wallabies lock Nathan Sharpe has joined the new West Australian Super 14 franchise in a bitter blow to the Queensland Reds.
Sharpe announced his departure today in South Africa where he is with the Reds preparing to play in Saturday's Super 12 match against the Stormers in Cape Town.
He's the second player to link up with the John Mitchell-coached WA side which yesterday secured the services of NSW hooker Brendan Cannon.
Sharpe's hand was forced by injured Reds' skipper Elton Flatley's announcement that he was standing down from the Queensland captaincy.
"It has been by far the toughest decision of my life and one that I have thought long and hard about," Sharpe said.
"I knew I had to make my mind-up once Elton stood down as full-time captain as I didn't want to accept the role under false pretences.
"In fairness to my team-mates I have decided to stand down as Reds captain for the remainder of the season, but I will certainly be doing my very best for the team and supporters until the end of Super 12.
"The timing is not ideal with a big game this weekend, but it was in the interest of both parties and most importantly my team-mates that I came to a decision."
Reds coach Jeff Miller said Sharpe's decision was very disappointing.
"He had been offered the captaincy of his home state on a permanent basis as well as the opportunity of having a key role in helping to develop a very talented group of young players.
"We are very sorry to see him go and very disappointed that he did not wish to follow the example of Chris Latham, Elton Flatley, John Roe and David Croft, all of whom recently signed new long-term deals with the Reds.
"The whole process has been hugely disruptive, but we have a game this weekend and its important that we concentrate fully on that and the remainder of the season."
Sharpe has been offered the captaincy of the new side and Rugby WA CEO Peter O'Meara said he was a born leader.
"Nathan Sharpe has exceptional leadership qualities and will only flourish further as a foundation member of WA's new Super 14 team," O'Meara said.
"He will be a great asset to John Mitchell and will be a role model for the younger players that come to Perth. He is clearly seeking improvement and wants to become one of the best in his trade."
WA is also expected to sign Queensland's former Wallabies winger Ben Tune.
