White insists Saints have succession plan as chairman hails departing Darbon

Darbon will be taking over at The R&A (The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews) following a hugely impressive seven years at Saints.

The 45-year-old has ensured the black, green and gold have gone from strength to strength, on and off the field, during his time at the club.

And White has nothing but praise for the work Darbon has done, while insisting Saints always knew the day when he moved on to another top job would eventually come.

“Mark has done a fantastic job during his seven years leading the club, and leaves Saints in a very strong position for the future – on and off the pitch," White said.

“He has helped us to cultivate an incredibly talented group of players, coaches, and support staff who know how to win games of rugby, and a commercial staff who know our business inside out. So, I have no doubt they all will continue to drive the club forwards after Mark’s departure.

“Our attention now shifts to appointing Mark’s successor, and of course we will inform our supporters and partners of any update in that process in due course.

"We are focused on ensuring this transition is as smooth as possible.

“Given Mark’s calibre and his capability as a leader, it was inevitable that one day he would be approached to take on a leading role within one of the most reputable sporting organisations in the world – so this move, while disappointing for the club, is not surprising and we have planned for this moment.

“Leading The R&A as their chief executive is a fantastic opportunity for Mark, and we wish him and his family the very best up in Scotland.

"I’ve enjoyed every minute working with him, he deserves this opportunity, and I have no doubt that he will have a huge impact at The R&A and bring that organisation the same success as he has here at Saints.”