Ospreys confirm six players leaving along with assistant James

Toby Booth has confirmed that six players are leaving the Ospreys along with assistant coach Brock James now that their 2021/22 campaign has ended. The Welsh region finished ninth in the URC table, winding up one spot outside the quarter-final qualification places but still finishing as the highest-ranked team from Wales to secure Heineken Cup qualification for next season.

That is a tournament they will now prepare for minus Lloyd Ashley, Ma’afu Fia, Rhodri Jones, Josh Thomas, Dewi Cross and Callum Carson, the half-dozen players who are leaving the club along with attack coach James.

A club statement read: “The Ospreys would like to pay tribute to all the players and coaches who have left and are leaving at the end of this United Rugby Championship season. We thank you for your contribution to the team and wish you all the best in the next chapter of your careers.

“We are proud that you have worn the jersey and played your part in the Ospreys' history. We pay tribute to your commitment to the Ospreys and for representing the region.

"The departures of Lloyd Ashley, Ma’afu Fia, Rhodri Jones and Josh Thomas have already been confirmed with their own personal statements during the season.”

Head coach Booth added: “This is always a challenging time of the year when we say goodbye to players and coaches but from all of us at the Ospreys we thank them for their commitment and what they have given to the region.”

Ospreys exits

Players: Lloyd Ashley (153 games), Ma’afu Fia (105), Rhodri Jones (87) Josh Thomas (17), Dewi Cross (10), Callum Carson (3);

Coach: Brock James (attack).