The Ospreys announced today that Nicky Smith will be leaving the team at the end of the season to join the Leicester Tigers.
Smith, a homegrown talent and a stalwart of the Ospreys, has been an integral part of the club since making his debut back in 2013. During that time, he has made 182 appearances and scored 11 tries, whilst also representing the Wales Senior Men’s team on 46 occasions.
Reflecting on his time with Ospreys, Smith said: “Leaving the Ospreys has been the hardest decision I’ve had to make during my career. This was not a financial decision for me, but more of an opportunity to test myself against new challenges.
"I’m incredibly grateful for every moment, every game and every supporter that has been part of my journey here. The Ospreys have always been a significant part of who I am, and I’ll carry forward everything I’ve learned here as I embark on this next chapter in my career.
“I am excited for what the future holds with Leicester and I’m equally excited to give my all for the Ospreys till the end of the season. There’s a great group of players and coaches here, and we’re all hopeful of doing something memorable this season.”
Head Coach for the Ospreys, Toby Booth, said: “Nicky chose to exercise an option in his contract that meant he could leave at the end of this season. We’re obviously disappointed to see him go, but this opens the door for some of our young front row talent, such as Garyn Phillips, to make the step up and compete for a more regular spot in the team.
“He leaves with our best wishes, Nicky is an Ospreys man and will always be welcome back here.”
As the season progresses, Ospreys supporters will have the opportunity to celebrate Nicky’s journey with the club as the team looks to build on the positive start to the season.
In closing, the Ospreys extend their heartfelt thanks to Nicky for his service and wish him the best for the future.