NFL setback for Jarryd Hayne with Australian released by San Francisco 49ers

Jarryd Hayne's NFL transition has suffered an early hitch after he was released by the San Francisco 49ers.

The former Australia rugby league star made the switch to the gridiron earlier this year as a running back and impressed in pre-season action to win a place on the 53-man roster.

However, three fumbles in his eight punt returns during the season proper have seen him cut by the team.

A statement on the team's website read: "The San Francisco 49ers announced on Saturday that they have promoted RB Kendall Gaskins to the active roster from the team's practice squad.

"In order to make room on the roster, the team has waived RB Jarryd Hayne."

Hayne also had eight carries for 25 yards and a single seven-yard reception in his six games for the Niners after originally winning a spot ahead of Gaskins and the injured Kendall Hunter.

The New South Wales-born player will enter the waiver system and be available for other NFL teams to sign as a free agent.

He could also be given the chance to return to Levi's Stadium as part of the practice squad.

Gaskins, an inch shorter than Hayne at 6ft 1in but 18 pounds heavier, will wear the No 30 jersey. He will compete with Mike Davis for carries as back-up to regular tailbacks Carlos Hyde and Reggie Bush.

Hayne's agent, Jack Betcha, later wrote on Twitter: "Jarryd will most likely be back to work on Mon or Tues either with the Niners or another team. he has to clear waivers now over next 48 hrs."

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