ARU shocked by Clarke's resignation

Clarke, who returned to the ARU in 2014 as General Manager Professional Rugby, Marketing and Operations before being promoted to COO in 2015, has called time on a decade-long career in Rugby administration.

Clarke had previously held the COO role at the ARU from 2006-2007 and has also served at the helm of the Brumbies and Melbourne Rebels as Chief Executive Officer.

ARU CEO, Bill Pulver said: "Rob Clarke is one of the outstanding sports administrators in the country and has given wonderful service to the game through the ARU, the Brumbies and Melbourne Rebels over the course of a decade.

"His resignation was difficult to accept but Rob has decided the time is right to pursue a different course along with his family and he deserves to be incredibly proud of his career in the game.

"When I look at the values of our game it is hard to imagine someone who embodies those values both in a professional and personal sense more than what Rob does. He is a tremendous loss for the organisation.

"I am ever-grateful to Rob for his contribution to the ARU and I wish him the very best for his future.

Clarke will conclude his role with the ARU in June 2017. He has chosen not to comment on his personal decision until the ongoing process in Super Rugby has concluded.