Ashley-Cooper heading to Bordeaux
French Top-14 side Bordeaux-Bègles have agreed a two-year contract with Wallaby Adam Ashley-Cooper to join them after next year's World Cup.
The 30-year-old Wallabies centre or wing has won 104 caps for Australia and is expected to play a leading role in their World Cup campaign in England next October.
"I am extremely grateful for my career in Australia, and I want to thank the ARU (Australian Rugby Union) and the Waratahs for their support over the past decade," Ashley-Cooper said.
"Without them, it would have been impossible for me to write this new chapter.
"I look forward to participating in the future of the (Bordeaux) club after the World Cup."
Bordeaux-Begles are enjoying a strong season in the highly-competitive Top-14 and are currently in sixth place, which would get them into the play-offs at the end of the season if they stay there.
They have already signed up for next year New Zealand loose forward Luke Braid and have been talking to Australian prop Sekope Kepu about a deal.
"Apart from being the great player he is, Adam Ashley-Cooper particularly impressed us with his extraordinary competitive spirit and his willingness to embrace our ambitious plans," Bordeaux club president Laurent Marti said.
SAPA
