Wales international hooker Scott Baldwin has been released from his contract with Gallagher Premiership club Worcester Warriors on compassionate grounds.
The 33-year-old, who won 34 caps for his country between 2013 and 2017, joined the Sixways club from Harlequins last year having helped his former side to the Premiership title.
However, a serious illness in his family has led Baldwin to request that he be released from his contract with immediate effect in order to spend more time with his family in Wales - a request that the English club have supported.
“I would like to thank the club for how understanding they have been through everything from the top down,” Baldwin said in a statement released by the club.
“It’s not the way I thought – or wanted – my time at Worcester to end, but I’ve met some great people in my time here all of whom have been supportive of my decision.
“Thank you to everyone in the club and to the supporters for making my time at Worcester an enjoyable one.”
During his time in the West Midlands, Baldwin made 13 appearances for Worcester - nine as a starter.
Before moving to England, Baldwin had spent the majority of his senior career at the Ospreys - moving to Quins in 2019.
“Our thoughts are with Scott and his family at this time,” said Warriors’ Lead Rugby Consultant Steve Diamond.
“The last few months have been extremely challenging for Scott who has been travelling to and from South Wales.
“He has now reached the stage where he needs to spend more time in Wales and we fully understand the reasons why he has asked to be released from his contract.
“We thank Scott for his professionalism in his time with Warriors and he leaves with our very best wishes for himself and his family.”
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