Victorious British & Irish Lions hooker Richard Hibbard is looking forward to starting a new chapter in his career after revealing he is set to join Gloucester.
Hibbard has enjoyed a 2013 to remember, playing four times as Wales defended their Six Nations title before featuring in all three Tests Down Under as the British & Irish Lions recorded their first series victory for 16 years – starting the decisive third Test.
And his fine form continued upon his return as he was named Wales ‘Man of the Series’ during the recent autumn internationals.
However Hibbard has ended his year to remember with the announcement that he is set for a change of scenery in 2014 as he swaps Wales for England.
The 30-year-old will call time on a ten-year career with Ospreys when he joins fellow Welshman Nigel Davies at Gloucester next year.
And despite admitting he leaves with a heavy heart, Hibbard is chomping at the bit to run out for the Cherry & Whites.
"It was always going to be a tough decision to leave my home area, as I'm currently in my tenth successive season at the Ospreys, which is my local region and where I was born,” he said.
"That said, I'm absolutely delighted to be joining a rugby club such as Gloucester, based in the heart of the local community, with such a tradition and with amazing support.
"I'm a great believer in loyalty and community and I'd like to place on record formally, my great thanks to the Ospreys management, coaches, players and fans for supporting me so well throughout my career.
"I'm an Ospreys fan, and always will be. I'll just be supporting them from a distance! I wish them well in the future.
"I now look forward to this next exciting chapter in my life, and indeed that of my young family, and hope to help Gloucester Rugby return to the top of the English and British game.”
