Pratt’s praise as Beaumont leaves to rejoin Sharks

Head of rugby Andy Pratt has paid tribute to Martyn Beaumont after the back chose to leave Canterbury and return to hometown team Dover. Beaumont moved to Merton Lane from the Sharks in 2011 and helped the city club romp to the National 3 South East title in his first campaign before four and half seasons playing in National 2 South. As the city club prepare to welcome Barnstaple to the Marine Travel Ground on Saturday (3pm) after their three-week festive break, Pratt said: “Martyn has decided to return to Dover and help out his hometown club. It’s something he and I have discussed for a few weeks and he’s taken time to think about over Christmas. “I am disappointed to see him go but understand his decision as he feels he has been played out of position and at this stage of his career, I think he is also starting to look at starting out in coaching.” Beaumont skippered the side last year under former coach Nicky Little and has appeared at full-back, fly-half and more recently on the wing for the city club. Pratt added: “He’s leaving on good terms, he’s been a fantastic servant and made a huge contribution to the club over the past few years and he’ll be missed. “It’s difficult to replace a guy like Martyn and the experience he has but we are going to have to. We are fortunate to have some good lads coming through so it gives them an opportunity.” Canterbury saw a seven-match winning streak end at Old Elthamians in their final game before Christmas and Pratt warned it will not be easy to start a new one, despite his sixth-placed side having 50 points to the fourth-bottom visitors’ 26. He said: “We have got a lot of respect for them. They won’t be the same team we beat in September. They have learned well. We have to be careful not to allow a hangover from the Christmas break.” Max Cantwell and Royce Cadman are available, while George Micans and Aiden Moss are nearing fitness.

Picture: Chris Davey Former Canterbury skipper Martyn Beaumont has rejoined Dover