Hassell-Collins to depart London Irish
Sport

Hassell-Collins to depart London Irish

London Irish have confirmed the departure of Ollie Hassell-Collins from the Club at the end of the 2022/23 season.

Hassell-Collins progressed from the Exiles’ Academy earning his first senior appearance in the 2018/19 season.

The 24-year-old has since made 101 appearances for the Club and amassed 215 points and 43 tries scored as an Irish player, including to help lift the 2018/19 Championship to gain promotion to the Gallagher Premiership. He achieved his first caps for the England Senior team in this year’s 6 Nations Championship.

Director of Rugby Declan Kidney thanked Hassell-Collins for his immense efforts in his time with London Irish.

“I know that alongside his contributions for London Irish, Ollie as a person will always be remembered fondly by everyone at the Club and our supporters too. I have learned a lot from Ollie as a person.

“That is down to his personality and the hard work he has put in through the years to become the player that he is today, Leicester have gained a very valuable man on and off the field.

“I’d like to take the opportunity to thank Ollie and his family for their time and effort over the years and wish them well for the future.”

Describing London Irish as “very special Club”, Ollie Hassell-Collins expressed his gratitude for the support received during his time in west London.

He said: “A decision to leave a place like London Irish is never an easy one, they have provided me with more than I can put into words in my time here, but I feel the time is right for a new challenge.

“Throughout my years with Irish and to this day, I have always been surrounded by excellent coaches, staff and players and I want to thank them for playing a very important role in my journey.

“There is still a lot to play for this season, and rest assured, I will do my utmost to repay the work put in and play my part in the really important games coming up for London Irish.

“Finally, I want to thank the supporters of this very special Club for their support of me and the team through good times and bad, and I am confident that they will be rewarded for their continued faith in the Club very soon.”