WORCESTER Rugby Club have denied that Duncan Hall's dramatic departure was to make way for their new chief executive Geoff Cook.

Hall resigned from his post as first team coach last week just days before Cook joined the Sixways back room staff.

But the club's managing director Cecil Duckworth said the two moves are in no way related.

"With Duncan, things weren't working in a number of areas so he felt he wanted to go back to Australia," said Duckworth.

"Geoff's arrival is to strengthen the team and reduce my commitment as my wife tells me I'm supposed to be retired. It also means we have the advantage of Geoff's vast experience."

The new arrival means director of rugby Les Cusworth will now spend more time on the training pitch.

"I'm delighted Geoff has been brought on board as the team at Worcester has struggled with the rapid expansion of this rugby club," said Cusworth.