Melbourne - Wales and Rebels forward Gareth Delve has announced that he will leave the South-Australian franchise at the end of the Super Rugby season.
According to the Herald Sun's website the Cardiff-born loose-forward is reportedly targeting a return to the UK, preferably a Welsh club, to stake his claim for selection in the Wales national team and add to his tally of 11 international caps, ending his three-year stay in Melbourne.
Rebels CEO Rob Clarke had high praise for Delve.
"The Rebels were very grateful that the ARU allowed special dispensation for Gareth to remain at the club beyond their two year window, as part of the international marquee rulings."
"Gareth has been an inspirational leader since he arrived from the UK in 2010.
"We all know the impact Gareth has had on the rugby field, but what many people don't realise is the significant impact he has had within the Victorian rugby community, travelling throughout Victoria promoting rugby, visiting schools, clubs and local charities. He has been a true leader in the Five Star Engagement program."
Rebels Head Coach Damien Hill said he was sad to see Delve go, but looked fondly on the player's time at the Rebels.
"One of the club's finest moments was seeing Gareth take the field in his beloved Welsh colours in Canberra.
"The fact that so many Melbourne supporters travelled to see him play shows the impact he has had on this city," said Hill.
"He has won some prominent awards in his time here at the Rebels and will be remembered as one of the greatest players to wear the five Stars.
"That is what this club has been able to provide. The Rebels have given Delvey the opportunity to play for Wales again," Hill said.
According to the Herald Sun's website the Cardiff-born loose-forward is reportedly targeting a return to the UK, preferably a Welsh club, to stake his claim for selection in the Wales national team and add to his tally of 11 international caps, ending his three-year stay in Melbourne.
Rebels CEO Rob Clarke had high praise for Delve.
"The Rebels were very grateful that the ARU allowed special dispensation for Gareth to remain at the club beyond their two year window, as part of the international marquee rulings."
"Gareth has been an inspirational leader since he arrived from the UK in 2010.
"We all know the impact Gareth has had on the rugby field, but what many people don't realise is the significant impact he has had within the Victorian rugby community, travelling throughout Victoria promoting rugby, visiting schools, clubs and local charities. He has been a true leader in the Five Star Engagement program."
Rebels Head Coach Damien Hill said he was sad to see Delve go, but looked fondly on the player's time at the Rebels.
"One of the club's finest moments was seeing Gareth take the field in his beloved Welsh colours in Canberra.
"The fact that so many Melbourne supporters travelled to see him play shows the impact he has had on this city," said Hill.
"He has won some prominent awards in his time here at the Rebels and will be remembered as one of the greatest players to wear the five Stars.
"That is what this club has been able to provide. The Rebels have given Delvey the opportunity to play for Wales again," Hill said.