Andy Powell is set to leave Cardiff Blues © Getty Images

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Players/Officials: Andy Powell

Teams: Cardiff Blues | Wales

Wales back-rower Andy Powell is set to be released from his contract with Cardiff Blues after a difficult season.

Powell, 28, enjoyed a stunning 2008-09 season, winning his first Test caps and gaining recognition with the British & Irish Lions in South Africa, but has struggled in 2010 following his dismissal from the Wales squad during the Six Nations.

The No.8 was banned from driving for 15 months in February after his now infamous golf buggy incident in the wake of Wales' thrilling win over Scotland in Cardiff. Since then he has been linked with a move to rugby league with the Crusaders and a return to France with Agen, while Wasps are the latest side to be mentioned in connection with his signature.

"Everyone at the Blues would like to thank Andy for his services to the region over the past five years," head coach Dai Young said. "When he is fully focused, Andy in one of the best back-row forwards in the country, as he showed when he was deservedly called up to represent his country and the British & Irish Lions during his time with the Blues.

"However, I think it's fair to say that this last season has been a difficult one for Andy following the unwise incident with the golf buggy and he has lost his way somewhat. Both parties felt it was in the best interests of the region and Andy if we parted company and we wish him well with his future rugby career."

Powell won an international recall for Wales' June Tests against South Africa and New Zealand but was unable to add to his 14 caps due to a thigh injury collected during training. In a statement through his agent, Emanuele Palladino, Powell said that a change of scenery is in need as he looks to make the squad for the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

"Andy would like to thank Cardiff Blues for all of their support over the last five memorable years," the statement read. "His time at the club has been extremely enjoyable and positive, and has seen him enjoy a meteoric rise through the ranks to become a Welsh international and Lion.

"Andy, however, felt that he needed a new challenge and sees this next season as pivotal in his ambitions to represent his country and play in the World Cup next year."