MELBOURNE, Sept 12 V7N - Former Australian international flyhalf James O'Connor has decided to leave the Queensland Reds, rejecting the Super Rugby club's offer to extend his contract. After a five-year stint with the Reds, the 34-year-old is now set to pursue a new role overseas."These last five years a have been the highlight of my rugby career," O'Connor said in a statement released by the Reds. "I'm departing Queensland a better player, leader and man, and I'm so grateful to have been able to play for this team, my home."O'Connor, who has earned 64 test caps for the Wallabies, returned to the Reds in 2019 after a troubled year with the club in 2015.

During his second tenure, he helped the team win the 2021 Super Rugby AU title and played a pivotal role in the development of the Reds' young flyhalf talents.However, O'Connor's 2024 season was marred by a persistent hamstring injury that limited his playing time.

Despite the setback, he managed to end his Reds career on a high note, assisting his former club Brothers in winning the state's semi-professional championship.Reds head coach Les Kiss expressed the club's disappointment at O'Connor's departure, but acknowledged the decision. "We did make him an offer to stay and continue at the Reds and will be sad to see him go, but we respect the decision," Kiss said.

The Reds praised O'Connor's "immense experience and willingness to share his experiences" as crucial in the development of young players like Tom Lynagh and Harry McLaughlin-Phillips.

Once known as the "bad boy" of Australian rugby, O'Connor had revived his international career during his first stint with the Reds under former coach Brad Thorn.As O'Connor embarks on a new chapter overseas, the Reds will look to build on the leadership and expertise he provided during his time with the club.
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