Latham to leave Warriors
Chris Latham to leave Worcester Warriors at end of season
Wednesday, 06, Jan 2010 02:06
By Alistair Potter.
Full-back Chris Latham is set to leave Worcester Warriors at the end of the 2009/10 season, the club have announced.
The former Australian international, 34, is expected to return to Australia with his family after his existing two-year deal at Sixways expires at the end of the season.
Confirming Latham's departure, director of rugby Mike Ruddock praised the player's contribution since arriving at the club from Queensland Reds.
"Chris has been inspirational and his work ethic has been truly remarkable. Having had the opportunity to work with him first hand, I can see why he was by far the best full-back in the world for so many years," the former Wales head coach said.
"His dedication to the job and his commitment on the field has been inspirational for all at the club to witness.
"We wish Chris every happiness in his new challenge."
Latham said he reached his decision not to take up the option of a third year on his contract after consulting with his wife and his two children.
"After much consideration we feel, as a family, that this is the right time to return home to Australia, with my daughter starting high school and my son soon to start school," he explained.
"I would like to thank Mike Ruddock and Cecil Duckworth for giving me the opportunity to come to Worcester and to Pat Sanderson and my team-mates for making me feel so welcome. It has been a very enjoyable time in my career."
Latham, the second highest try scorer in Wallaby history, has so far made 34 appearances for the Warriors in all competitions, scoring 42 points.