Leinster release Kane Douglas as he seeks Australian World Cup spot
Thursday 23 July 2015 20:09, UK
Leinster have released Australian forward Kane Douglas from his contract as he seeks to secure a place in the Wallabies World Cup squad.
The 26-year-old enjoyed a frustrating season with the Irish province after joining from New South Wales Waratahs and admitted he found it very difficult to settle.
"There are a few things going on at home that I need to be there for," Douglas said in a statement.
"I didn't think it would be this tough to be away from it all and I hope I can get back home real soon.”
Douglas needs to be signed to a Super Rugby team to be eligible for Wallabies selection and reports in Australia state he is close to agreeing a two-year deal with the Queensland Reds.
The second-row, who has 14 caps for Australia, could link up with the Wallabies as early as next week as Michael Cheika seeks to integrate him back into the squad in time for the Bledisloe Cup Tests against the All Blacks in Sydney (August 8) and Auckland (August 15).
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A statement from Leinster said: "Leinster Rugby can confirm that a suitable agreement has been reached to release second row Kane Douglas from his contract with the province with immediate effect.
"Leinster Rugby would like to wish Kane and Jennarly the best of luck as they return home, and wish Kane well as he competes for World Cup selection with the Wallabies."
Douglas made a total of 20 appearances for Leinster last season (14 Guinness PRO12, six European Rugby Champions Cup) before undergoing back surgery in April to deal with a disc problem.
