RFU appoints new chief

17/01/2012

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has announced the appointment of its new chief executive, which will take effect next month.

Ian Ritchie has been appointed to the role and will leave his current post at the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club on February 27th, as well as stepping down as an independent non-executive director of The Football League and also leaving the board of Wembley Stadium.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr Ritchie said he has much to be excited about as the country is witnessing "a new generation of players emerge in the RBS Six Nations", while England will host the 2015 World Cup. 

The appointment marks the latest step in the shake-up of English rugby that has seen major changes in officialdom, coaching staff and playing squads.

Fans enjoying hospitality packages at Twickenham in the Six Nations will be looking for early signs that this fresh start is having a positive effect on the field, where it matters most.

Interim head coach Stuart Lancaster made 15 changes to the Six Nations squad for this year from the 2012 line-up, bringing in youngsters like Owen Farrell and Ben Morgan.

By Sam Smith