RPA announce new Vice Chairman

Malone was elected by the 12 player representatives on the RPA Management Board, on behalf of the membership in each of the 12 Premiership clubs. He will work alongside RPA Chairman, David Barnes and CEO Damian Hopley to represent and promote the views of all RPA members.

David Barnes, RPA Chairman said: "Chris is highly respected throughout the Premiership and has a wealth of experience gathered from seven seasons in the Premiership. These are very exciting times for the newly expanded RPA and we are delighted to have Chris's knowledge, insight and outlook driving the Players' Association.

"I would also like to place on record my sincere thanks to our outgoing Vice Chairman, Will James of Gloucester, for his time, commitment and support throughout last season."

RPA Vice Chairman Chris Malone said: "It's a great honour to be elected as the new RPA Vice Chairman and I'm looking forward to working with David and Damian in ensuring that the collective players' voices are heard loud and clear throughout the game."

The RPA Management Board is made up of current players in the Guinness Premiership plus RPA CEO, Damian Hopley. The RPA membership elect their Management Board player representatives, Chairman and Vice Chairman annually. RPA members elect one player from each of the 12 Premiership clubs to sit on the board. The current RPA Management Board are:
Chairman: David Barnes (Bath); Vice Chairman: Chris Malone (London Irish); James Collins (Worcester Warriors); Hall Charlton (Newcastle Falcons); Mark Hopley (Northampton Saints); Will James (Gloucester); James Jones (Sale Sharks); Tim Payne (London Wasps); Jonathan Pendlebury (Leeds Carnegie); Tom Ryder (Saracens); Sam Vesty (Leicester Tigers); Tom Williams (Harlequins); CEO: Damian Hopley.