Smith released by Wasps

Former Leeds centre Lee Smith has been released by rugby union club Wasps just four months after switching codes.

Smith, 23, quit rugby league after starring for Leeds in their third successive Super League triumph and for England as they reached the final of the Four Nations.

He has been asked to be released from his contract after making a request to return home to Leeds for personal reasons and a desire to be closer to his family, said a club statement.

Wasps Director of Rugby, Tony Hanks, said, ”As a Club we support Lee’s desire to return home to his family and we thank him for his efforts with the Club – making two senior appearances against Newcastle and Scarlets, as well as two run outs with the A League. Everyone at Wasps wishes him the very best in the next stage of his career.”

Smith has now been linked with a return to Leeds or a link-up with former England coach Tony Smith at Warrington.

He added: “I would like to thank London Wasps for giving me the opportunity to have a go at playing Rugby Union. Unfortunately things have not worked out for me and I am returning home to be closer to my family. I have made some good friends at Wasps and I would like to wish the players and coaching staff all the best for the remainder of the season.”