Wallabies captain Ben Mowen will further his career in France at the end of 2014.

Mowen had one of the fastest rises in international rugby in 2013. Not only was he picked to make his debut against the British & Irish Lions, but he became captain of the Wallabies just four months later.

His departure will see him opt out of the 2015 World Cup, as all players must be playing for Australian states to be eligible for national selection.

‘I have loved the opportunity to play for the Wallabies and I have been fortunate to play alongside and be mentored by many incredible players, coaches and other members of the Australian rugby community during my career,’ Mowen said in an ARU press release.

The No 8 added that the decision is based on personal and family considerations.

‘While my desire to play for Australia is still extremely strong, my priority is to spend more time with my wife and our daughter.

‘I would have loved my career to have lined up to help Australia win the next World Cup, but my priority at this stage in my life is my family. I will be cheering hard from a distance – we have the squad and coaching staff to achieve a World Cup win in 2015 and I wish them all the very best.’

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