Rebels confirm Koroibete, Haylett-Petty departure

Sun, Jun 20, 2021, 11:50 PM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson
Plucky Melbourne have spoiled the Crusaders' Super Rugby Trans-Tasman party despite going down 52-26 in their final round clash at Leichhardt Oval.

The Melbourne Rebels have confirmed a host of players will depart at the end of the season, led by Wallabies Marika Koroibete and Dane Haylett-Petty.

In an announcement on Friday, the club revealed Koroibete will head to Japan in 2022 following his Wallabies commitments.

Get your tickets now for the Wallabies three-Test series with France!

The 28-year-old was named Players' Player following an outstanding 2021 campaign, with the winger scoring 23 tries during his 69 games with the club.

He will be joined in Japan by Isi Naisarani, who will leave the club after playing 31 games since 2019.

Koroibete runs over Gatland

Meanwhile, Haylett-Petty, who was named captain for the past three years, will not return as he explores his options.

Haylett-Petty did not feature in 2021 as he continues to recover from a concussion.

Along with this, Frank Lomani will return back home to Fiji, with the halfback named in their squad to face New Zealand in July.

Lock Steve Cummins has also signed a multi-year deal with French side Section Paloise in the Top 14.

Their departing list is rounded out by Tom Pincus, who they confirmed will move into his post-Rugby career.

The club has confirmed that they will retain the majority of their squad from 2021, with 27 players contracted for the 2022 season.

READ MORE:

DROUGHT OVER: Blues defeat Highlanders

DEFEND THE CROWN: Waratahs overcome Reds

BUILDING A VISION: Hooper creating Wallabies legacy

Share
Melbourne wary of wounded Crusaders as foot injury rules out standout Rebels lock
Aussies eyeing lead in Kiwi Super Rugby clashes
Dropped before a debut: The three minutes that moulded Reds halfback Werchon
Club Corner: WA & Victoria back in action, Norths draw with Sunnybank in thriller