While news of the 48-year-old’s looming departure sent shockwaves around Toyota Stadium, it was, to some extent, anticipated. Contingency plans had already been put in place should the union lose the services of the former Free State captain.

Duncan spent just over a year in the role before tendering his resignation. While, at first glance, it may not have seemed like much had changed, he played a crucial role in steadying the ship, helping to stabilise a union that had been in a downward spiral.

Chairman of the Board, Ryno Opperman, told OFM Sport that they are pleased for Duncan as he embarks on the next chapter of his rugby administration journey. He added that the union is proud to have become a breeding ground not only for players, but also for off-field talent.

“From our side, I think Rory did wonderful work for us. We always knew it could possibly just be a short stint and that he would go on to bigger things,” said the astute businessman and former Free State lock.

“We’ve built a reputation for developing talent - not only Springboks, but also members of the Springbok coaching staff. Many of them have come through the Free State system, and I think that legacy is now being extended.

“We are also developing administrators for SARU and for URC franchises.”

Opperman added that during Duncan’s short tenure, it was vital to put key structures in place - including the appointment of a Chief Financial Officer - to strengthen the management team and help restore the union to its rightful place in South African rugby.

“For us, we always knew his stay could be shorter, but we’re quite excited. During this year we established a very strong management team in terms of commercial and rugby management, and we’ve also strengthened our financial structures with the appointment of a chartered accountant as CFO,” Opperman said.

“There is now a very strong management team in place, which makes any change at the top much easier. It’s not about one person - it’s about a strong collective. Frans Steyn, our Director of Rugby, is doing brilliant work in taking things forward, so there will be a lot of continuity.

Rory Duncan - Morgan Piek

“That being said, it’s good for us to see Rory departing on a positive note, and we will always have a very good working relationship with him in his new position. We are excited about the opportunity to bring in a fresh way of thinking.”

Opperman emphasised that the franchise has now been stabilised thanks to Duncan’s tireless efforts - a crucial step as they look to grow the brand and strengthen rugby in central South Africa.

“I believe we have stabilised the union, and now the focus is on growing the brand and bringing it back to the people.

“This is a good opportunity to look at things differently and to ensure we appoint the right person. The board is working through several options with the aim of moving in a fresh direction and reviving our brand.”

Frans Steyn and Rory Duncan - Morgan Piek

He concluded by highlighting the role of Director of Rugby Frans Steyn in ensuring the continued progress of Free State Rugby, while wishing Duncan well in his future endeavours.

“We wish Rory all the best. We always believed he would move on to bigger things, whether at URC or even at SARU level.

“From our side, we will continue developing talent for South African rugby - whether at player level, coaching level or now also at administrative level. We are quite excited. We are stable, we have a very strong management team, and we’re especially looking forward to the SA Currie Cup season under the guidance of Frans Steyn. “We believe it’s going to be a good season for us.”

Duncan will be joining the Sharks in May as the franchise’s Chief of Staff, and he has committed to ensuring a smooth leadership transition.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport