Wales back row Ross Moriarty leaves Dragons with immediate effect

Dragons have confirmed that Wales back row Ross Moriarty has left the club with immediate effect.

Moriarty started his professional rugby career with Gloucester in 2012 and made a switch to Welsh province Dragons in 2018. Since joining Dragons, the 28-year-old has featured in 54 games but now is heading to French side Brive, who are currently languishing at the bottom of Top 14 table.

“I’m sad to be leaving Dragons RFC after five seasons in Newport, but this is an opportunity that I feel I have to take at this time for myself and my young family,” Moriarty said in a statement released by Dragons.

“I leave with many happy memories of my time as a Dragon, and I have made lifelong friends within the squad.

“I’d like to thank everyone involved with the club for their support, especially Dai Flanagan for his understanding with the decision I have made."

Moriarty has played 35 times for Wales which meant he could still be eligible to represent the national side despite his move to abroad.

Dragons head coach Dai Flanagan expressed his disappointment over the news of Moriarty's departure.

“We’re obviously disappointed to be losing a player of the quality of Ross after we offered him the best possible terms we could to remain with us,” Flanagan said.

“I have always enjoyed a strong relationship with Ross and would like to thank him for his honesty and professionalism throughout what I know has been a difficult decision for him.

“Ross has made a huge impact at Dragons over the last five seasons, captaining the side on several occasions, giving absolutely everything to the cause and being a fantastic role model to the younger players around him.

“Ross and his young family now have a new opportunity overseas and they leave us with our very best wishes for the future. He will always be welcomed back at Rodney Parade.”