Ealing confirm six more leavers, raising their exit count to nine

Championship runners-up Ealing have confirmed the names of a half-dozen more end-of-season leavers, adding to the three departures already announced earlier this week by the London club. The Trailfinders, who this Saturday host the Championship Cup final versus league title winners Jersey, had already revealed the exits of long-serving trio Alun Walker, Will Davis and Lewis Thiede.

Scottish hooker Walker is leaving as the longest-serving member of the current squad having been at the club since 2014 and winning every trophy that Ealing have won since turning professional.

Davis, who spent seven seasons over two spells at the club, and Thiede, who spent five seasons over two spells, are also departing after excellent Vallis Way contributions, but the club has now publicised six more player exits – ex-Queensland Reds flanker Adam Korczyk, former Bristol hooker Shaun Malton, ex-Exeter back-rower Max Northcote-Green, Australian back-rower Jack Digby, ex-Waratahs scrum-half Jack Grant and ex-Connacht centre Peter Robb.

Director of rugby Ben Ward said: “Every season is full of ups and downs, and one of these down moments is when we have to say goodbye to those who are moving on at the end of the season.

“Both Adam and Max have been incredibly unfortunate with injuries throughout their time here, but their hard work to make it back to full fitness has been commendable, and whenever they have been on the pitch they have always given their all. My only regret is that we didn’t see them more times in green and white.

“Shaun has been superb throughout the last three years, both in the set-piece and in the loose and has always popped up with important moments when we have needed them. Jack has really grown throughout his time here, being a really effective ball carrier and a crucial part of the last couple of months.

“Although Jack and Peter’s spells in west London have been short, their impetus and work around the club have been exceptional and I wish them all the best for whatever is next for them.”