Northampton Saints have confirmed the departure of Fiji hooker Sam Matavesi with rapid impact to “pursue a enjoying alternative abroad”.
The 32-year-old has spent the final 5 seasons at Franklin’s Gardens, amassing 89 appearances and scoring 13 tries.
The transfer means his ultimate Saints look was the Gallagher Premiership ultimate victory over Tub, the place the 25-cap Fijian loved a 20-minute cameo from the bench.
The victory over Tub meant Matavesi turned the primary particular person serving within the navy (Royal Navy) to win the Premiership.
Matavesi joins a prolonged checklist of seasoned Saints that left on the finish of the season, which incorporates legends Courtney Lawes, Alex Waller and Lewis Ludlam.
Although disillusioned to see Matavesi depart, Saints director of rugby Phil Dowson has backed his present crop of hookers following this announcement.
“We’re disillusioned that Sam has determined to maneuver abroad, however we’ve a unbelievable secure of hookers at Saints in Curtis Langdon, Robbie Smith and Craig Wright – so we’ve each confidence within the high quality we’ve in that house,” mentioned Dowson.
“Curtis and Robbie are each pushing for worldwide choice with England and Scotland respectively, whereas Craig is at present England’s standout hooker at Underneath-20s stage.
“Sam has introduced quite a bit, each on and off the pitch, to our group over the previous few seasons, so we thank him for his contribution and want him and his household the very best for his or her subsequent step.”