Solomone Kata has been granted a release from his Super Rugby contract with the Brumbies so he can remain in New Zealand for family reasons.

The 26-year-old outside joined the club in 2020, switching codes after a five-year stint in the NRL with the New Zealand Warriors.

He played 12 rugby league Tests, representing both New Zealand and Tonga.

Hampered by injury during 2021, Kata departs the club having made 15 appearances for the Brumbies in his two years in Canberra, scoring five tries.

He re-signed in August but has decided to stay in Auckland where he has been playing in the NPC.

“I want to thank the Brumbies for granting me this early release,” Kata said in a statement.

“When I re-signed for next season, I was so excited to come back to Canberra and to continue developing at the Brumbies but being in Auckland with my family, and COVID travel restrictions, I’ve had to make some difficult choices to do the best thing for my young family.

“I’ve loved my time at the Brumbies and I wish my teammates and everyone at the club well for the future.”

Brumbies head coach, Dan McKellar said while they wanted to keep Kata on their books, a release was the right thing to do.

“We’ve enjoyed having him here at the Brumbies, but we understand personal circumstances change and that it’s in his best interest to remain in New Zealand,” McKellar said.

AAP

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