Ross Moriarty: Wales back row leaves Dragons for Brive

Ross Moriarty (left) has won 54 caps for Wales

Wales back row Ross Moriarty has left Dragons to join French side Brive.

The 28-year-old British and Irish Lion, who made 54 appearances for Dragons since joining from Gloucester in 2018, turned down the offer of a new contract.

"This is an opportunity I feel I have to take at this time for myself and my young family," said Moriarty.

"I leave with many happy memories of my time as a Dragon, and I have made lifelong friends within the squad."

Brive are bottom of the Top 14, nine points behind second-bottom Perpignan.

Dragons head coach Dai Flanagan said: "We're obviously disappointed to be losing a player of the quality of Ross after we offered him the best possible terms we could to remain with us.

"Ross has made a huge impact at Dragons over the last five seasons, captaining the side on several occasions, giving absolutely everything to the cause and being a fantastic role model to the younger players around him."

Moriarty said: "I'd like to thank everyone involved with the club for their support, especially Dai Flanagan for his understanding with the decision I have made.

"I've always loved playing at Rodney Parade in front of the passionate and dedicated fan base.

"I'll continue to follow the fortunes of Dragons very closely and do believe the future is bright. There is a huge amount of exciting young talent within the squad and Dai's vision is one I am confident will succeed."

Moriarty has signed a contract with Brive until 2025.

He remains eligible for Wales because he has played 54 internationals, although he has been left out of recent campaigns by Wayne Pivac and current coach Warren Gatland.

Players with fewer than 25 caps are not eligible if they move to a club outside Wales.