yes a bit odd, perhaps they were originally going to go for Too'mua again this year but were unsure as to his playing future (still only one head knock away from ending though). i really liked what Wells brought in rugby smarts and quiet effectiveness and his post match interviews, never an excuse. they may well feel he is no longer in the best 23 if they can get Ioane fit and Kemeny back, perhaps Isi is coming home (just dreaming). my reactions are a bit mixed, not great that you're dumping the skipper (effect on morale ?) but on the other hand finally a bit ruthless in who to keep in the squad.
and Powell going too
"Looking ahead to 2023, the Melbourne Rebels will enter next season retaining the majority of its 2022 playing squad and current Wallabies and Junior Wallabies representatives.
The Melbourne Rebels can also confirm it has some exciting announcements to make in the coming days regarding new player signings and retentions."