Jim Mallinder to leave Northampton Saints

Jim Mallinder to leave Northampton Saints

Northampton Saints can confirm that director of rugby Jim Mallinder will be leaving his position at the club with immediate effect.

“Jim has been an outstanding director of rugby. We have been very lucky to have him at Franklin’s Gardens and he will always be a part of the Saints family,” said John White, Northampton Saints Chairman.

“This is not a decision that has been taken lightly, but the board and major shareholders felt that the time was right for some change.”

Having taken the reins at Franklin’s Gardens in 2007, Mallinder was the longest-serving director of rugby in the Premiership, but due to the recent string of results the Saints board agreed that a change in management was in the best interest of the club.

“Jim has done a superb job as Northampton Saints’ director of rugby over the last decade, and the amount of silverware the club has won during his tenure speaks for itself. We thank Jim for all he has done at Franklin’s Gardens,” commented Mark Darbon, Northampton Saints CEO.


“We will now begin an extensive search to find a world-class director of rugby to replace Jim.

“Whilst that search is underway, we will look to bolster our existing coaching group with some additional leadership and experience on a short-term basis for this season.''


Alan Dickens, the club’s attack coach, will take over in the short-term position of interim head coach until a replacement is found for Mallinder.

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