The NSW Waratahs can confirm that Izaia Perese will depart the club at the conclusion of the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific season after signing a two-year year deal with Leicester Tigers in the Gallagher Premiership.
Perese joined the Waratahs in 2021 and has played a total of 37 games, scoring seven tries.
The Waratahs would like to sincerely thank Perese for his tremendous efforts in the sky blue jersey and for his professionalism around the club during his three-year tenure.
“Izaia has been a terrific performer and team member for the Waratahs over the last three years and whilst it is sad to see him leave, we wish Izzy and his family all the best in the next phase of his career,” Head Coach Darren Coleman said.
Perese achieved national honours whilst playing for the Waratahs and the wholehearted outside centre is looking forward to finishing his final season off on a positive note.
“I’d like to thank my teammates, coaches, staff, members, and supporters of this great club for welcoming me into the Waratahs family and making my family and I feel so welcome since we arrived.
“I’ve really developed my game here and I’ll always be grateful to Darren, Gilly, Whits, Pauli, and Shannon for helping me improve as a player.
“It was a difficult decision to leave the club, but it’s also an exciting opportunity for my family and I to experience life in the UK and for me to take on a new challenge in my career.
“I’ll be looking to give my best in every game for the remainder of the season and hopefully give this competition a real shake come finals time.”
The Waratahs will be making no further comment.
