It’s a surprise in preparation of the Pan Continental.

Stunning news from St. John’s as import second E.J. Harnden has departed from Team Brad Gushue.

And whomever steps into the team lineup will soon be wearing the maple leaf.

“Team Gushue announces that the team and EJ Harnden have agreed to part ways effective immediately,” read the Team Gushue statement.

“We are grateful for EJ’s unwavering commitment and the tremendous impact he has made on our team. We wish him all the best in the future,” said Gushue.

The statement also includes a quote from Harnden, who praised his now ex-teammates and their fans.

“It has been an incredible journey with Team Gushue,” said Harnden.

“I am proud of what we accomplished together, and I wish Brad, Mark (Nichols) and Geoff (Walker) the very best.”

Team Gushue had to fight through the C-side to qualify for the final of the first Grand Slam event of the season, and lost the final of the PointsBet Invitational. They also qualified for the semifinals at a World Curling Tour stop in Oakville.

Team Gushue starts another tour event in Harnden’s hometown of Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. on Oct. 17.

The following event is the Pan Continental Championship in Lacombe, Alta. beginning Oct. 27. That’s where the squad will represent Canada in the search for a berth in the world men’s curling championship in March.

“To everyone who supports Team Gushue, I can’t thank you enough for your warm welcome,” continued Harnden.

“The support this team has is special; and it was incredible to experience that passion. I look forward to what lies ahead, both personally and professionally.”

Team Gushue said they will begin the search for a new player to join the lineup.

PEI’s Adam Casey was recently announced as Team Gushue’s alternate for the Pan Continental Championships.

Casey played with Gushue for three years from 2012 through 2014, along with fellow PEI native Brett Gallant.

Harnden joined Team Gushue in 2022, replacing Gallant who jumped to Team Bottcher (now Team Jacobs). 

Team Gushue won the past two Brier titles with Harnden, and finished second at both world championships.

The news continues a wild merry-go-round of Canadian team lineup announcements that have all taken place in the opening weeks of the new season.