The Scarlets have announced the departures of four players, including popular back-rower Will Boyde and South African lock David Bulbring.
Second-row Tom Price and young scrum-half Declan Smith will also leave the region.
There was an outpouring of concern after WalesOnline flagged up Boyde’s impending exit, with many supporters perplexed as to why the Scarlets were letting go a player they have nurtured for five seasons.
Even departing coach Wayne Pivac revealed he was at odds with the decision.
Jon Daniels, general manager of rugby at the region, said: “The demands of professional rugby mean we have had to make some tough decisions.
“Unfortunately we will be saying goodbye to players who have been excellent professionals and valued members of our squad who have played their part in our success over recent seasons.
“In an ideal world we would have liked to have kept everyone here at Parc y Scarlets, but that has not been possible. When running a business there are some difficult decisions you would rather not make.
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“We would like to wish Will, David, Tom and Declan the best in their future rugby careers and maybe we will see them back here at Parc y Scarlets one day.”
Boyde is undoubtedly the most contentious departure.
The Narberth product played for the Scarlets’ age-grade sides and made his debut against Cardiff Blues in December 2014.
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Capped by Wales Under-20s, he has led the Scarlets and will make his 84th appearance when they face Zebre this weekend.
Strong over the ball and resolute in defence, he is renowned for his total commitment and he featured in the squad that lifted the Guinness PRO14 title in 2017.
Bulbring leaves after four seasons and 70 appearances for the Scarlets.
The writing was on the wall when the region announced the signing of Sam Lousi from the Hurricanes, with the new man joining a second-row pool that contains Jake Ball, Steve Cummins, Lewis Rawlins and Josh Helps.
Bulbring featured off the bench in the PRO12 final two years ago and was involved in every game as Wayne Pivac’s side reached the Heineken Champions Cup semi-finals last season.
But the man from Port Elizabeth is heading out, along with fellow lock Price, who has agreed a two-year deal with Exeter Chiefs.
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Smith has played 12 matches in Scarlets colours since making his debut in a pre-season encounter against the Chiefs three years ago. A Wales Under-20s cap, he is a product of the Scarlets Academy system.
Presentations will be made to the players after Saturday’s game against Zebre in Llanelli.
