Leicester Tigers back Bryce Hegarty reportedly signs for Western Force

Australian utility back Bryce Hegarty has reportedly signed a deal in his home country and is set to leave Leicester Tigers after one season.

The 29-year-old joined Tigers last summer and played 17 times in all competitions, including 11 Premiership appearances in the title-winning campaign.

However, The West Australian is reporting his time at Mattioli Woods Welford Road is at an end.

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Hegarty has reportedly signed a one-season deal at Western Force, who have been active in their recruitment recently. The Perth side signed Curtis Rona from London Irish as well as former Brumbies and Wallabies hooker Folau Fainga’a, Chiefs flyer Chase Tiatia, Rebels back-rower and captain Michael Wells and second-rower Jeremy Williams from the Waratahs.

Tigers recently revealed their 2022 leavers list and Hegarty was not among those leaving the club.

Ellis Genge (Bristol Bears) and George Ford (Sale Sharks) top the list which also included the names of Matias Moroni (Newcastle Falcons), Dan Lancaster (Ealing Trailfinders), Jaco Taute (retired), Tom Youngs (retired), Sam Aspland-Robinson, Marco van Staden and Juan Pablo Socino (all released).

The West Australian reported Hegarty is 'hoped he will be in Perth by November but he could arrive earlier if he secures a release from Leicester who will make a decision when their international players return for pre-season'.

Force head of rugby Matt Hodgson said: “Bryce fits the match day bench player perfectly. To have him finish out a game would be unreal. “He’s very experienced and in his time in Europe has improved his knowledge, his game strategy and plan."

Hegarty played rugby in his home country the Rebels,