Scarlets centre Maule to leave region to pursue new opportunity

The Scarlets have agreed to release Maule from his final year of his contract to enable the Pontypool born centre to pursue a new opportunity with Bristol Rugby.

Maule joined the Scarlets in May 2009 from the Newport Gwent Dragons, having previously played for Ebbw Vale, Newport RFC and Cross Keys. Maule made his debut for the Scarlets against Neath in a pre-season friendly in August 2009 and played 16 matches for the region in his first season.

Maule has represented Wales at U16, U18, U19 and U20 levels. Since arriving at Parc y Scarlets Maule has joined the illustrious 100 club, reaching the historic milestone during 2013-14 season and also captained the region on occasions.

Scarlets Head Coach Wayne Pivac; "We are building a philosophy here not only to get results for the club but also to help promote our players to achieve the goals they have set for themselves.

"With growing competition at centre with the likes of Scott Williams, Regan King, Michael Tagicakibau, Adam Warren, Gareth Owen and Wales Under 20s captain Steff Hughes coming through the ranks Gareth felt he would benefit from a fresh opportunity which he's been offered at Bristol.

"Gareth has been a great servant of the club and announced the decision to take the opportunity at Bristol to the team in the changing room after the Gloucester game on Saturday. We wish him well for the 2014-15 season and the future."

Commenting on his decision to leave the Scarlets Gareth Maule said: "This decision was definitely the hardest I have had to make during my rugby career but I felt that this opportunity could provide me with a fresh challenge, one which I am very excited about. I depart with some invaluable memories, gathered in my years with this special club and feel honoured to have worn the famous Scarlet jersey on so many occasions and to join the list of centurions is something that makes immensely proud.

"I'll be forever grateful for the opportunity that the Scarlets gave me in top-level professional rugby and I wish everyone all the best for what I feel will be a very prosperous future.

The Scarlets would like to thank Gareth for his commitment to the region over the last five years. He has showed great maturity and loyalty and has played a pivotal role within the region both on and off the field and we wish him well in the future.