Diamond stuns Sale after quitting as rugby director

SALE Sharks have announced that director of rugby Steve Diamond has left the Gallagher Premiership club with immediate effect due to personal reasons.

In a statement released by the club, Diamond said he had taken the decision to “step away from the business”.

Former Bradford Bulls and Wigan rugby league player Paul Deacon will assume first-team responsibility as head coach.

Diamond’s shock departure comes just three games into the new Premiership season, and only four days before Sale’s Heineken

Champions Cup opener against Toulon.

“After 10 proud years with Sale Sharks, I have taken the decision to step away from the business,” he said.

“I feel that this is the perfect moment to hand over to someone else, given the club is now stable and in a great position to compete at the highest level.

“We have acquired a world-class training facility, built an academy that is the envy of many Premiership clubs, and constructed a squad that can win tournaments and trophies at domestic and European level.”

Diamond, who made 290 appearances for Sale as a player, rejoined the club in January 2011 and also had spells as its chief executive.

He led Sale to the Premiership Rugby Cup in September, but they missed out on reaching the Premiership play-offs last season after a coronavirus outbreak forced them to forfeit their final game.

The Sharks added: “The club would like to thank Steve for his loyal service and commitment over the years.”