Ospreys flanker Olly Cracknell has been released, bringing an end to his time at the region after six years.
The abrasive flanker amassed over 100 appearances for the Ospreys and became a favourite among fans for his uncompromising defence and relentless work-rate.
But he has found opportunities hard to come by under head coach Toby Booth, with the Ospreys boasting an abundance of quality in the back row.
READ MORE: For all the latest news, views and analysis head to our rugby section
As such, Cracknell, who was called into the senior Wales squad in 2017 but did not receive a cap, requested permission to be released from his contract to join London Irish in the Gallagher Premiership.
“At this stage of my career, I need to play regular rugby and I am grateful to the Ospreys for allowing me to continue my career away from Swansea," said the 27-year-old, who represented Wales at under-20s level.
“My 50th and 100th caps for the Ospreys are two of my proudest moments in rugby and I will always be grateful for the opportunity to play for the team and the support I always got from the supporters.
“I have made some great friends at the Ospreys and I would like to wish the players and staff all the best for the future.”
Ospreys boss Booth added: “An opportunity presented itself and Olly asked if he could leave to further his career to get consistent game time. A request we felt obliged to grant due to his prior commitment to the Ospreys and our respect for him as a person.”
- To get the latest rugby news delivered straight to your inbox, you can sign up for our Welsh rugby newsletter.
