Super Rugby
Matt Toomua leaves Super Rugby with blessing of disappointed Brumbies
ESPN Staff
November 16, 2015
Matt Toomua has played 31 Tests for Australia © Getty Images
Enlarge

Matt Toomua will leave Brumbies at the end of the 2016 Super Rugby season with the blessing of the franchise, chief executive Michael Jones saying "it is disappointing to be losing one of Australia's premier playmakers [but] we understand Matt has to look after his own interests and we fully support his decision".

Toomua has signed a one-year deal with Aviva Premiership club Leicester Tigers, for the 2016-2017 European season, having played 76 games for the Brumbies and 31 Tests for Australia including the Rugby World Cup final against the All Blacks at Twickenham.

"Matt has been honest and up front with the Brumbies before he made any decision and maintained an open dialogue throughout his discussions," Jones said. "There's no doubt he will be a loss to our side and the Wallabies, but that is the nature of professional sport and I think we have planned well for the future to ensure our roster will stay strong and competitive for years to come.

Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham described Toomua as "a great ambassador for the Brumbies on and off the field for many years" who would want to "leave the club as a winner".

"I'm absolutely positive that we won't lose anything from him this season. I am 100% sure he is as committed to the Brumbies as we all are, to bring the club a Super Rugby title this year."

Toomua is currently on leave and will return to Brumbies pre-season training in early January ahead of the 2016 Super Rugby season. Brumbies players who did not take part in the 2015 Rugby World Cup will officially return to pre-season training on Friday.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

Live Sports

Communication error please reload the page.