The Sharks can confirm that Kyle Flanagan has been released from the final two years of his contract.

The Sharks decision comes following a request from the player, with Flanagan granted the release and able to explore other options for the 2020 season and beyond.

Having come through the Club’s development system and in displaying his ability to play in the NRL, Kyle was regarded as an integral part of the future, with the Sharks willing to honour his contract for the 2020/21 seasons.

However, in this instance the Sharks felt the right course of action would be to grant Flanagan’s release request.

“It is disappointing to leave my junior club but I feel that I am ready to play regular NRL," Flanagan said. "The club has been such a big part of my life and it is tough to leave. I will be doing everything I can to get back in the team and finish the year on a positive note.”

Coach John Morris expressed his disappointment in losing a young player of his ability, one who has come through a Sharks academy and junior development system that is now consistently producing NRL players.

“We are always disappointed to see our home-grown talent move on, but in saying that we respect Kyle’s decision in requesting the release and wish him well in his future endeavours,” Morris said.

“He has proven his ability to play at an NRL level but obviously he thought his best opportunity to play in the NRL was elsewhere.”

With the release coming after the June 30 transfer deadline, Flanagan will continue to be an important member of the Sharks squad for the remainder of the 2019 season.