Penrith Panthers can confirm Wayde Egan has been granted an immediate release from his contract to pursue an opportunity at New Zealand Warriors.

The 22-year-old hooker progressed through the junior development pathways at Panthers to make his NRL debut in 2018.

Egan played 29 NRL games and scored three tries in his time at the club.

“Wayde and his management this week approached Panthers to request an immediate release from the remainder of his contract,” Panthers General Manager Rugby League Matt Cameron said.

“As a club we would have liked Wayde to see out his contract however we also understand the opportunity presented by the Warriors was a difficult one for Wayde to turn down at this point in his career.

“Wayde’s request for a release has been granted out of respect to him and we wish him the best of luck moving forward.”