Former Leeds Rhinos prop reportedly set for Super League return after release from NRL club

Yesterday the Canterbury Bulldogs confirmed the expected news that former Leeds Rhinos prop Ava Seumanufagai had been released from his contract.

The agreement was made amicably despite some rumours to the contrary.

There’s been much speculation as to what he will do next but according to Fox League the prop is returning to Super League.

They said: “The Bulldogs have released veteran forward Ava Seumanufagai from the final year of his contract to return to the Super League.”

Seumanufagai played in Super League for 18 months joining Leeds in May 2019 prior to helping the Rhinos to Challenge Cup Final glory in 2020.

He was supposed to stay at Headingley in 2021 but desired a return home due to the pandemic.

Now Seumanufagai seems set to return to Super League but where remains to be seen.

In the club’s official statement about his departure, they said: “Much speculation has surrounded 141-game Bulldogs forward Ava Seumanufagai following the Club’s top 30 announcement this week where his name was omitted.

“Despite any speculation, Ava’s exit from the Club has been an amicable one as he leaves the NRL to pursue another opportunity.

“The Club had been in talks with Ava at the end of the 2022 season and agreed to terms to release him from his contract.”

Bulldogs CEO, Aaron Warburton, added: “Ava brought great energy and experience to Belmore. He was a leader amongst the younger players and was someone who always led the way in terms of his attitude at training and desire to improve.

“The Bulldogs would like to thank Ava for guiding his teammates and for his work ethic and contribution to our Club. We wish him and his family all the best for their future endeavours.”