DREW Hickey may be heading off to the Land of the Rising Sun at the end of the season, but the back-row star is confident Worcester are going from strength to strength.

Hickey and fellow Aussie Shane Drahm have both agreed end-of-season moves to Japanese side Kubota Spears and the former Orrell flanker is confident he will leave Sixways with the club moving in the right direction.

The 29-year-old forward, who was a key component of Warriors' National Division One-winning side, has opted for the move east to be closer to family and friends back in Australia.

He said: "I am definitely looking forward to my move - it will be a big change for me and my family.

"I have been living and playing rugby in England for six years now, so it is also a move closer to my family and friends back home in Australia. It will also be a big lifestyle change for us.

"I'm planning to enjoy the rest of this season with the Warriors and hopefully play as much as possible to help the team.

"The club is definitely moving forward and you can see that just by the number of international-quality players that have joined the club. Worcester is certainly a team on the up now.

"Mike Ruddock and Clive Griffiths have got us passing the ball around more and trying to score some tries, whereas the last three seasons were more about grinding out results to try and stay in the Premiership."

Warriors' director of rugby Ruddock paid tribute to the two Antipodean aces and stressed they both still have big parts to play for the Warriors this season.

He said: "Shane and Drew have both been great servants to Warriors, an important part of our development and remain a key part of the first-team squad this season.

"After contractual discussions, Shane and Drew have decided to do what they feel is right for them at this time in their careers.

"We wish them every success in Japan while we will now explore other options for the back row and fly-half positions next season."

Drahm joined Warriors in the summer of 2005 from Northampton Saints and has been an integral part of the team ever since, featuring in more than 70 matches for the club.

The fly-half also holds a number of kicking records in the Guinness Premiership as one of the league's top 10 marksmen in history and last season he smashed through the 1,000-point barrier.

The 30-year-old, who has represented England A' after qualifying through residency, has also enjoyed spells at Queensland Reds, Bristol and Northampton Saints.