The Melbourne Rebels have confirmed a host of departing players, headlined by Wallaby Matt Philip.
Philip has been a standout since making the move from the Force in 2018, going on to play 63 matches for the club.
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He debuted for the Wallabies in the same year and was named Rebels Players’ Player award in 2020.
The 29-year-old heads to Japan alongside fellow lock Trevor Hosea.
The Melbourne-born Hosea has become a regular for the Rebels over the past four years, graduating through the Rebels’ inaugural pathways program.
Meanwhile, cult hero Richard Hardwick will also leave, with his destination unconfirmed.
Hardwick was one of the standouts for the Rebels in 2023, scoring five tries in ten games to go with a plethora of turnovers.
The 29-year-old's strong form will likely see him represent Namibia at this year's World Cup, potentially coming up against fellow departing Rebel Monty Ioane.
Ioane is reportedly off to French club Lyon, having returned to his home state at the start of the year.
He is joined by explosive pair Ray Nu’u and Tamati Ioane, who had been regular starters under Kevin Foote.
The Melbourne Rebels also confirmed the departures of Cameron Orr, Theo Fourie, Illikena Vudogo, Moses Sorovi, Tim Cardall and Jaiden Christian, having already announced centurion Reece Hodge will head to France at the end of the year.
It comes with the likes of Taniela Tupou, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and Darby Lancaster set to make the trip south, with the Rebels confirming they will announce further signings in the coming weeks and months
