Despite signing a new two-year deal at the end of last season, the signing of fly-half Carlos Spencer to replace the outgoing Shane Drahm meant there would be two overseas players in the squad.

Premier Rugby and RFU rules stipulate that only one overseas player is allowed on the pitch in a team at any time during a game. In simple terms, the rule means Spencer and Stcherbina would not be able to play at the same time. Other Saints squad members, such as Bruce Reihana and Matt Lord, qualifiy as European players through parentage or passports. 

Head coach Budge Pountney said: “The club is terribly disappointed that Marc has decided to find another club but completely understands his reasons. He is a fine player and a great guy off the pitch and we were only too pleased to renew his contract, especially when we thought Shane would be staying with us. Unfortunately, this rule means we could not play Carlos and Marc at the same time and it would be a waste of his talent if he could not play regular first team rugby. We all wish him well.”

Stcherbina, who played for Australia A, the Waratahs and Biarritz before coming to Franklin’s Gardens, started 29 games for Saints last season – the most by any player in the squad. He made his debut against Bath Rugby on September 4.