Wallabies forward Jack Dempsey says the decision to leave the NSW Waratahs at the end of the 2021 season was "incredibly tough" after signing a deal with Glasgow Warriors.
The Waratahs confirmed on Monday that Dempsey - who has played 14 Tests - will be departing for the Scottish PRO14 side at the conclusion of the Super Rugby AU campaign.
The 26-year-old back-rower made his Waratahs debut in 2015 and has played 44 games for them, twice claiming the Australian conference title during his seven seasons.
Dempsey said his decision was considered at length but the timing was right to accept a new and exciting challenge in his career.
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"The move to Glasgow presents such a different challenge both in lifestyle and rugby, and personally, it feels like the right time to take that challenge head-on," he said.
"Departing NSW was an incredibly tough decision. It's a club I have spent my entire professional career since joining at the end of 2014.
"The Waratahs allowed me to develop as a rugby player on my home soil and represent my state which has meant the world to me over the past seven seasons.
"I leave with very fond memories of the players, coaches and fans and wish the team, coaching staff and entire organisation the best of success."
Waratahs coach Rob Penney was full of praise for Dempsey's contribution to the team.
"Jack is a player of great influence in our forward pack and will have a huge role to play in our 2021 campaign," Penney said.
"While we're sad to see him go, we understand what a great opportunity this is for him, the ability to play a long season and to experience what our great game has to offer abroad was something that really excited Jack."
The Waratahs take on the Reds on Friday February 19 at Suncorp Stadium, kicking off at 7:45pm AEDT, LIVE on Stan Sport and Nine Gem. Buy tickets here.
