Hurricanes coach Chris Boyd will leave the club at the end of the 2018 Super Rugby season to take up a new role overseas.
Boyd has been appointed director of rugby at English premiership club the Northampton Saints, a position he will take up after his fourth year in charge of the Hurricanes.
The 59‑year‑old said it was a difficult decision, but the right one at this point in his career.
Boyd said it was important the announcement regarding his coaching future was made before the season kicked off to avoid any potential distraction to his squad.
Boyd's successor would be announced in due course.
Boyd's record over three seasons stands at an impressive 42 wins from 53 matches, with the Hurricanes reaching two Super Rugby finals, in 2015 and 2016, before missing out in the semi‑final to the Lions last year.
The Hurricanes opening match is against the Bulls in Pretoria at 3.15am on the 25th of next month.
The Super Rugby starts on the 18th of next month.
Source: Stuff.co.nz