Wallaby Tahu officially seeks release: ARU

Wallaby back Timana Tahu has officially requested a release from his Australian Rugby Union contract, the ARU said on Friday.

Tahu, 28, reportedly wants to walk away from the final two years of his contract and return to the Parramatta Eels in Australia's National Rugby League next year.

Newspapers said Tahu, who has played four internationals, wanted to quit because he was sick of rugby after playing off the bench for much of the last Super 14 season and failing to make the Australian team this year.

An ARU spokesman said "amicable discussions" had taken place on Friday with Tahu and his advisors.

"Timana has confirmed he is seeking a release from his ARU/NSWRU contract," the spokesman said.

"The ARU and NSWRU have taken his request on board and will work towards a quick resolution on the matter."

The spokesman said the national and New South Wales unions would be considering a number of issues and would be in contact again with Timana's advisors next week.

Tahu was signed by the previous ARU regime, three months before John O'Neill returned in 2007 to replace Gary Flowers as chief executive.