Despite Abu Dhabi Saracens bidding farewell to the two main men who sowed the seeds of their brilliant West Asia Cup success last season, chairman Jay Danielson doesn’t believe there is any cause for concern.
– Hamilton and Nutt to share Abu Dhabi Saracens management role
– Jeremy Manning steps down as Abu Dhabi Harlequins coach
Having only come into being in 2011, Sarries won Gulf rugby’s grandest prize on March 20 by beating heavily fancied Doha 26- 20 in the hot house environment of Qatar.
Just two months later, however, president Dave Jackson, the lynchpin behind Sarries’ birth and rise, has stepped aside, head coach Ali Thompson following suit.
Two of Thompson’s charges from last season have stepped up to replace him, prop Craig Nutt and centre and backs coach Stephen Hamilton taking dual responsibility of the team for next season.
“It’s not going to be easy but it’s onwards and upwards for Saracens and I’m convinced Craig and Steve will do a great job,” said Danielson. The decision was confirmed at the club’s AGM held last Wednesday.
“Both had expressed an interest in taking on the role so we sat down and discussed it with them. The decision was unanimous, everyone is happy with it and the response has been positive from all the boys,” added the 37-year-old.
“Both bring a lot to the table. Our forward pack was a big element of our game (last season). We had the best scrum in the league and Craig was a big part of that.
“He has a very high level of rugby behind him back home, having played for Bargoed (Welsh Rugby Union Championship side and feeder club for Newport Gwent Dragons). Steve also has great pedigree of coaching and is a natural leader, he’s shown that on the field. Both are committed to the club and we will march on.”
Although fears are bound to surface about Sarries’ future after such a stellar season, with key figures stepping away, Danielson feels the familiar faces of Hamilton and Nutt will help smooth the transition.
“Obviously it’s a change of scenery but we are looking to the future and next season we’ll be stepping out onto the pitch looking to win,” he said.