Richie Rees latest in a string of players to leave Cardiff Blues

Richie Rees will leave the Cardiff Blues at the end of the season, the region have confirmed.

Rees, 28, is the latest in a string of players to announce they are leaving Wales at the end of the season to ply their trade elsewhere.  His decision to leave the club makes him the sixth senior player to announce he is to leave the club, following announcements already made by Gethin Jenkins, Rhys Thomas, Dan Parks and Casey Laulala and the expected retirement of Martyn Williams.

During his time at the Blues, Rees appeared nine times for Wales, scoring the only try of his international career against Australia in the Autumn 2010 test series. Following the emergence of Lloyd Williams and Rhys Webb he has slipped down the international pecking order and has seen Williams become first choice 9 for the Blues.

Rees said: “I've had a fantastic time at the Blues since joining in 2007 and there have been many highlights. In particular winning both the EDF Energy & Amlin Challenge cups, and the unforgettable Heineken Cup semi-final penalty shootout versus Leicester.

"Cardiff Blues are currently in a transition period and I believe now is the right time to throw myself into a new challenge. There's a great group of boys at the Blues and I really enjoy training with them every day.

“I'd like to thank all of the supporters who have been great with me since joining, and Dai Young for his contribution to my career. I look forward to ending the season well with the Blues in both the Rabo & Heineken Cup!"