Smith leaves Wakefield for rugby union

Wakefield have released centre Lee Smith to enable him to take up an opportunity at rugby union side Newcastle Falcons.

Smith, 27, has spent the past 18 months with the Wildcats after initially joining from Leeds, but now returns to the 15-man code where he had a brief spell with Wasps in 2010, making just one appearance.

He said: “I’d like to thank Michael Carter and the club for agreeing to release me from the remainder of my contract to take up this opportunity.  I’m honoured to have played for a great club over the past 18 months and thank Richard Agar and his coaching staff for all they’ve done for me during my time at Wakefield.

“The fans have been good to me and finally, I’d like to thank all the players for making the last 18 months really enjoyable.  I’ve come into the club with a smile on my face every day and that means a lot.”

Smith returned to rugby league with Leeds barely four months after leaving for rugby union, before eventually going on to score 170 points in 33 Super League appearances for Wakefield.