Scott Higginbotham
Scott Higginbotham has become the latest to join a growing list of Wallabies that will head for the exit door after the World Cup this year.
The veteran back row forward, Higginbotham, confirmed on Monday that he will leave Australia after the World Cup, where he is in contention to represent Australia.
Higginbotham will take up a contract in Japan.
His departure follows on the news that James Horwill and Adam Ashley-Cooper will continue their careers in Europe beyond the 2015 World Cup.
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Those who have signed on beyond 2015 include Quade Cooper and Nick Phipps, while players like James O’Connor and Nick Cummins have returned from abroad for 2015 – in the hopes of getting World Cup call-ups.
Higginbotham moved to Melbourne from the Queensland Reds in 2013 and has made 93 Super Rugby appearances, scoring an impressive 27 tries in the process.
The 28-year-old, with 31 Tests and three international tries to his credit, led the franchise while Gareth Delve was injured in 2013, and was appointed as the Rebels’ permanent captain in 2014.
Rebels coach McGahan said he understood Higginbotham’s decision to continue his career abroad.
“Scott has been an important part of our squad and wonderful ambassador for the franchise and Victorian Rugby over the last two seasons, and will continue to be in 2015,” McGahan said.
“Scott will be missed; however his departure at the end of the 2015 season provides an exciting opportunity for the next young Rebels player to push through in back row positions. Our consistent recruitment and retention program over the last twelve months will allow the franchise to move forward in the best possible direction.”
Higginbotham stressed that his focus remains purely on matters in Melbourne, and Australia, for the upcoming season.
“I love the Rebels, and I also love every opportunity to play for my country; I’ll always be grateful for the opportunities I have been given in Australia,” Higginbotham said.
“I’m so excited for the season ahead with the Rebels and the Wallabies, and all the success to be had in 2015.”
The Perth-born forward did not say which side he would join in Japan, which will host the 2019 World Cup.