Japan Rugby League One club Kubota Spears has announced the signing of veteran Welsh full-back Liam Williams for next season.
The British & Irish Lion still had a year remaining on his contract with Cardiff but the region was looking to reduce their wage bill in the difficult financial climate.
Williams is not the first departure from the club with Jarrod Evans and Dillon Lewis both signing for Harlequins in April.
Looking forward to the move
The 84-cap Welshman took to Twitter to confirm the switch and underline that he is fully committed to working towards representing Wales at the Rugby World Cup later this year.
“I’m delighted to announce that I have signed with Kubota Spears for next season,” Williams wrote on his Twitter account.
“I have fond memories of playing in Japan in the 2019 World Cup. I will never forget how welcoming everybody was. I am looking forward to experiencing a new way of life with my wife Sophie and we are excited about the opportunity.
“I have made some incredible memories in Welsh rugby over the years and must thank the @welshrugbyunion and @cardiffrugby for their understanding in what has been a challenging few months.
“I will be doing everything possible to be selected for the World Cup campaign with @welshrugbyunion and am excited about the opportunity to be involved.”
A difficult time
Meanwhile, it has been a difficult period for Welsh rugby as they navigate issues ranging from serious allegations regarding board members to a difficult financial climate.
Two of their veterans recently retired in the legendary Alun Wyn Jones and Justin Tipuric, whilst rising star Joe Hawkins is ineligible for World Cup selection following confusion around the timing of his signing for Exeter Chiefs.
The environment has prompted head coach Warren Gatland, who returned to the team in December, to admit he may have taken a different job if he had known the extent of the issues within Welsh rugby.
