London Welsh head coach Lyn Jones has revealed his ruthless side by releasing 12 players from the squad that lifted the Championship title last month.

Tom French, Liam Gibson, Will Hurrell, Gary Johnson, Vili Ma’asi, Saul Nelson, Shawn Pittman, Mike Powell, Guillermo Roan, Ben Russell, Ben Stevenson and Edd Thrower have all been cut adrift and will be playing elsewhere next season.

“Rugby is the quintessential team game and because of the physical demands every club needs a squad of dedicated team players who can step up to the plate at any time,” said London Welsh managing director John Taylor.

“We are particularly grateful to those who could not always hold down a place in the starting XV for their professionalism throughout the season, and we wish them well as they move on to pursue their careers elsewhere or go into retirement.

"They will always be a part of the London Welsh family.”