JY Hitchcox has left the Bulls, with the Australian set to join Toulouse.

The 30-year-old became a Bull in 2018, joining the club on loan from Castleford and helping them win promotion to the Championship, before putting pen-to-paper on a permanent two-year deal ahead of last season.

However, Hitchcox is leaving the club halfway through that contract. A Bulls statement read: "Bradford Bulls can today confirm we have accepted Jy Hitchcox's request to leave the club to pursue an alternative playing option at another club."

It is understood the former Super League winger is joining Bulls' Championship rivals Toulouse, who finished second last season.

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Hitchcox made 13 appearances this year, scoring five tries despite suffering a lengthy shoulder injury.

In a message on social media, he wrote: "As you are all aware, I have been granted a release from the final year of my contract with the Bulls.

"I just want to thank Stu Duffy and John Kear along with the rest of the coaching staff for maintaining the utmost professionalism in what was a well documented rollercoaster of a year - for all of us, not just players.

"During tough times, people come together and that's exactly what we did.

"I want to thank the loyal fans of the Bradford Bulls - without you guys by our side each game things would have been a lot worse.

"After spending a short time with many of you, I understand your unwavering support, love  and passion which is unquestionable.

"I sincerely hope the Bulls return to their former glory days and you can once again unite on those Odsal terraces."

Hitchcox's departure follows the exit of four senior players to Hull KR last week - Elliot Minchella, Matty Storton, Joe Keyes and Rowan Milnes.

Academy youngster Anesu Mudoti also joined Rovers, with Milnes coming back to Bulls on a season-long loan.