Saracens have announced that Eddie Jones is to stand down as director of rugby at the end of the season. Jones, the former Australian national team coach, will be replaced by Brendan Venter, currently the defensive coach with Western Province in South Africa, in July.

It had been rumoured that Jones had become disillusioned with Sarries' increasingly South African outlook, though he was keen to emphasise that family reasons lie behind his forthcoming departure. "After careful consideration, I have decided to leave Saracens at the end of the current season," said Jones. "My reasons are entirely personal. My wife and daughter have always given me unqualified support but it is now time for me to put the family needs first.

"I have greatly enjoyed my time with Saracens extending back to 2006 and I wish the directors, staff and players well in the future. Naturally I remain 100% committed to the Saracens cause and eagerly look forward to building on the progress we have made this season and ensuring we challenge for a top-four finish in the Premiership and maintain our strong momentum in the European Challenge Cup."

Venter, a former London Irish coach who has worked with Saracens after being recommended by Jones, will take the reins for the 2009-10 season. "Obviously we are all very disappointed to lose Eddie, but we are very grateful for all his hard work, inspiration and the terrific structural changes he has made at the club," said the Saracens chairman, Nigel Wray.

"Brendan has an outstanding knowledge of the Guinness Premiership, following his success as coach at London Irish, and he has become well known and well respected at Saracens during the course of this season, after being introduced and recommended by Eddie as a specialist coach. We warmly welcome him to the club on a full-time basis."