The Western Force thanks lock Tom Franklin for his service after being granted a release by the Club to explore an overseas playing opportunity.
Franklin, 34, had re-signed with the Force in July after an impressive debut Super Rugby Pacific season with the Club, where he played nine games, winning 23 lineouts and completing 91 tackles.
But the veteran former Maori All-Blacks forward approached the Club last week after being presented with an overseas playing opportunity, with the Force granting him a release to take that up.
Franklin said: “I was really torn with this decision, it wasn’t an easy call to make, but with where I’m at with my career and the opportunity in front of me, I think it’s the right decision for me.
“I want to take time to thank the players, staff and the loyal Western Force fans for how they welcomed me.
“I’ve traveled around the world to a lot of places and the fans in Perth are special, they love their team and you can see every game how much it means to them. It’s something I’ll remember.
“Perth is such a beautiful, special place. It’s always got a place in my heart and I’d love to come back someday. It’s felt like a home away from home.”
Force general manager of rugby Chris Goodman said: “This is a great opportunity for Tom at this stage of his career.
“He’s made a big impact in a short period of time at the Force and we’re sad to see him go, but this is what’s best for him. We have good depth in our lock stocks so we don’t want to stand in his way.”
