Kurtley Beale confirms plans to leave Wasps at end of season
Thursday 9 March 2017 18:07, UK
Wasps have confirmed Kurtley Beale will return to Australia at the end of the season, following the conclusion of his one-year deal with the club.
Beale wants to return to his native country in a bid to improve his chances of being selected for the Wallabies squad for the 2019 World Cup.
Wasps director of rugby Dai Young said at the weekend the club were awaiting a decision from Beale - who scored two tries in Saturday's 24-3 Aviva Premiership win at Bath - and he has now received confirmation of the centre's plan to leave.
"This has been a really hard decision because of how much I've been enjoying my time at Wasps," Beale said.
"The squad, coaches, medical team and fans have been brilliant towards me since I arrived and I will always appreciate how they supported me through the injury rehab and gave me time to get my confidence back on the field.
"I believe I have grown as a player and person during my experience here. I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to play with these great lads and I'm loving being part of this group and am excited to see what we can achieve this season. With the squad Wasps have, I'm sure they will also be successful over the coming seasons.
"I signed a one-year deal from the outset to enable me to keep my options open. I came very close to agreeing a new contract with Wasps, but I believe to achieve my international rugby aspirations I need to be back home in Australia."
Wasps director of rugby Dai Young, said: "I know how difficult a decision this has been for Kurtley, as he has really enjoyed his time here at Wasps and has settled in brilliantly on and off the field.
"He is a popular member of the dressing room, as well as a world-class player. All new contract discussions between us and Kurtley have been very amicable and he will leave with our very best wishes in the summer."
