Huddersfield release international winger

Huddersfield Giants have confirmed the release of Australia and Fiji international Akuila Uate with immediate effect.

The 32-year-old arrived at the Giants ahead of the 2019 season but has seen his game time significantly limited due to a persisting ankle injury.

He made 12 appearances in total, scoring five tries, but will now return home to Australia.

“I’m very thankful for the opportunity the club have given me,” Uate said. “I’d like to thank the squad, who have made me feel welcome from day one.

“I’d also like to thank the fans, and all the backroom and coaching staff that I am leaving on good terms. I’d like to lastly thank my family, who have supported me throughout this experience. It’s not the end of the journey as far as I’m concerned but beginning of other opportunities.

“Although it didn’t work out the way I wanted, I’m thankful for the opportunity to play for the Huddersfield Giants and I am excited to play again in the future. Finally, I’d like to wish the boys all the best for the rest of the season.”

Giants managing director Richard Thewlis added: “This decision is very disappointing for Akuila, who has worked as hard as anyone could to get back from his ankle issue, as have our medics.

“The situation however couldn’t be allowed to drift any further, especially given the club’s acute difficulties at this moment in time surrounding the Covid-19 situation, which is likely to only worsen in the coming months, with next year already looking extremely challenging for everyone.

“That said, Aku’s departure will of course help financially and his gesture in returning home is very much appreciated and will certainly help our short and medium term situation.

“I have already said that the only way I can see through the financial crisis in rugby league is by us all sticking together on the key issues and Aku has done the right thing here to help the club and I sincerely hope that things will work our well for him and his family back home and that he is soon back on a Rugby field.”