By Andrew Collins
June 1 2006

Maama Molitika will be leaving the Cardiff Blues to take up a rugby career with Japan.

There were last minute doubts about his depature, insiders belived that he would rather opt to stay in Wales than head for Asia, but I can now confirm he will leave.

The 31-year old signed for the Blues midway through last season following a breif spell with Harlequins, having been signed originaly by the English after the demise of the Celtic Warriors. Maama went on to be very successul with Cardiff, and this season has been one of the most outstanding players.

His contribution this season has been faultless, and as I've stated before, he is a massive loss for us. He will be difficult to replace for Cardiff, though it's thought Leeds flanker, Scott Morgan, is the intended man.

He becomes the 8th official departee from this seasons squad, however, more are expected to follow. It is good news for Kort Schubert however, who may well be given a new contract now that the flankers numbers are limited. The Eagle's captain is now in his second seaso with the Blues, has not yet been offered a new contract, but Molitika's release and his late surge of form may change things.

Maama made 18 appearances for Cardif, scoring 3 tries. He has 3 Tongan caps.