MALVERN RFC have named one of their longest-serving players, Joe Budd, as the club captain ahead of the 2023/24 rugby season. 

Scrum-half Budd has played at Malvern since the age of 6 and played through the age groups at Malvern before making his senior first-team debut at 17.

Budd has since spent some years away from the club playing for The University of Nottingham and living overseas. He returned to the club in 2020/2021 and has been an active member of the 1st team squad since his return.

As was his father Ian Budd, Joe is a popular man at Spring Lane and the news will be welcomed by those involved at Malvern. 

A statement on the club's website read: "Having been part of our club from 6 years of age, it is with great pleasure that we announce Joe Budd as our new Club Captain.

"A true clubman, please join us in wishing Joe all the best for the exciting season ahead." 

It comes a week after the club also revealed the changes off the pitch, with Marc Gaubert being appointed as director of rugby and Ieuan Mustow being named as new head coach.

Former Worcester Warriors forward Morgan Monks also arrives as a new face at the club, becoming the new Forwards Coach. 

Elsewhere, the popular Tom Hale, or 'Cube' as he is known, will become First Team Manager for the upcoming season. John Clark will join as Strength & Conditioning Coach and Set Piece Coach, whilst Emma Fosh will take up the role as Second Team manager.