Willi Heinz parts ways with Worcester Warriors

Worcester Warriors have confirmed that scrum-half Willi Heinz has been released from his contract by mutual consent.

The 35-year-old, who played for England 13 times in 2019 and 2020 will now return back to his native in New Zealand.

Heinz started his career with Canterbury in 2009 with his Super Rugby debut for Crusaders coming a year later. He also went on to captain Canterbury in New Zealand’s ITM Cup.

He made a switch to Gloucester in 2015 and with 100 appearances for the Cherry and Whites, Heinz moved to Sixways in 2021. His association with the Warriors was hampered by a groin injury that forced him out of action for five months before returning to action in the Gallagher Premiership match against London Irish at the Brentford Community Stadium three weeks ago.

"Willi Heinz's family recently returned to New Zealand and Warriors are fully supportive of his request to re-join them there," said the club in a statement released.

Worcester are positioned 11th in the Gallagher Premiership table with five wins from 19 matches.