Exeter Chiefs have confirmed lock Mitch Lees has left the club and joined French Top 14 side CA Brive. The Australian-born forward had spent the last five seasons with the Chiefs, featuring in 113 matches, including three of Exeter’s four Premiership Final appearances.
However, the former London Welsh player was restricted to just 14 outings for the Sandy Park outfit across all competitions last term due to injury and the form of others, with his last appearance coming in the Premiership clash with Bath in March.
Exeter Director of Rugby Rob Baxter has confirmed that Lees’ struggles last season is one of the main reasons he has been allowed to move on and he feels the transfer to Brive is one that will suit all concerned. “Mitch didn’t get a lot of game time last season due to injuries and the form of others,” Baxter told the Exeter website.
“We sat down with him recently and discussed looking at all options for the new season. “Brive have shown an interest in Mitch, he’s been over there, he’s talked to them, carried out a medical and between the various parties, we’ve all agreed to release Mitch from his contract with immediate effect.” Lees certainly enjoyed his time with Exeter and he has been quick to wish the club all the best for the upcoming campaign.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time at Exeter over the last five seasons, my family and I have made some life-long friends and we’ll miss the club and the community,” the 30-year-old confirmed. “I wish the whole team the best success for the upcoming season. They are a special group of lads, who deserve to continue to be one of the best teams in the Premiership.”
