The Melbourne Rebels have confirmed vice-captain and Wallabies back Reece Hodge will leave the club at the end of the year.
Hodge will leave to join French club Bayonne, making the move to the French Top 14 on a three-year deal.
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The 28-year-old made his debut for the club in 2015, having gone on to represent the Rebels on 87 occasions.
Hodge had been linked to a move overseas over the past weeks, with his future confirmed on Monday afternoon by the Rebels.
“I’ve loved wearing the Rebels colours over the past eight seasons and I’m eternally grateful to the Club for helping shape me into the player and person I am today,” said Hodge in a statement.
“I’m intent on doing the jersey proud in 2023 and making it our most successful season ever.”
Bayonne president Philippe Tayeb told Canal+ television he was eager to see the impact the versatile back could have on the side as they continue their rise following promotion from Division two.
"He'll come to beef up our squad," Tayeb said.
"He's a world class player and will bring his all-round ability to help and grow our project and the youngsters in our club," he added.
The French Top 14 club marked the occasion by defeating Stade Francais 29-26 on Saturday.
The Parisians thought they had claimed a draw with Romain Briatte's late try but fly-half Camille Lopez slotted an 82nd minute penalty for the hosts leaving the 14-time champions in second place, seven points behind leaders Toulouse.
Hodge has played 62 Tests for the Wallabies since his debut in 2016.
