Leinster has released former Wallabies lock Kane Douglas from his contract with immediate effect after reaching a "suitable agreement" following his request to return to Australia.

Douglas, who joined Leinster last year and had two seasons left on his contract, had sought a release on compassionate grounds as the Australian Rugby Union look to bring him back into the fold in time to make a bid for the World Cup squad.

Douglas, whose mother died in 2013, was hoping to land a contract with the Queensland Reds to be closer to his father and brother Luke, who plays for NRL team the Gold Coast Titans, it was reported earlier this month.

The 26-year-old made a total of 20 appearances for Leinster last season before missing the tail-end of the season with a back injury.

Reuters