GUINNESS PREMIERSHIP

Drahm explains Japan move

Tuesday 13th May 2008

Smart option: Drahm has led Worcester well

Worcester Warriors pivot Shane Drahm has pinpointed location as the main reason for swapping the Guinness Premiership for Japan next season.

The 30-year-old Australian, who has played for England A since becoming eligible, will join Kubota Spears this summer along with Warriors team-mate Drew Hickey, while Thinus Delport also makes the switch to Asia.

"When I made the decision it was more about being closer to home and having a bit more time off," Drahm explained to BBC Hereford & Worcester.

"We'll only be about seven hours from Brisbane and the family will be able to spend about five months at home."

Drahm's form at full-back and fly-half has been vital to Worcester's late-season league revival, which saw them finish the season in tenth position above Newcastle and relegated Leeds.

However, despite notching 75 points in his final ten games for Mike Ruddock's side, Drahm believes the time is right to start his journey home.

"We've been away for seven years now, so it's important that I get my wife and kids to see their family," he added.