Wallaby Tomane heading to France

The powerful ball-runner is in need of a new challenge after five seasons with the Canberra-based Brumbies.

"It was a very difficult decision to make, but I feel the time is right to challenge myself and play rugby in a different environment," he said in an open letter to Brumbies' fans.

"It is also an opportunity to live abroad and do what I love most, play rugby."

Australians based abroad are generally unable to represent their country, although the eligibility rules were relaxed last year for senior players.

Those who have pulled on a Wallabies jersey more than 60 times and have held a professional contract with Australian rugby for at least seven years can now play abroad and for the national team.

Tomane, who has played 17 times for Australia, does not fall into this category.

The 26-year-old's decision to leave is therefore another blow for the Wallabies, who have lost several quality players to lucrative contracts at overseas clubs.

"I hope that the possibility of returning to the Wallabies in the future is something that could happen, however right now my focus is doing everything I can to help the Brumbies in 2016 before my move to France," he said.

Agence France-Presse