Solomone Kata has been granted an early release from the Vodafone Warriors

The Vodafone Warriors have today confirmed centre Solomone Kata has been granted an early release to continue his NRL career in Australia.

The 24-year-old double international was off contract at the end of next season but sought an immediate release to join the Melbourne Storm.

“Sol has played a lot of football in all grades since joining the club but after being an NRL regular over the last few seasons he has been in reserve grade (Canterbury Cup NSW) recently,” said Vodafone Warriors general manager football Brian Smith.

“With limited NRL opportunities he was keen to look at other avenues and asked for a release after Melbourne showed interest in him.

“He goes with our best wishes and we thank him for his contribution to the Vodafone Warriors.”

Born in Neiafu in Tonga, Kata joined the Vodafone Warriors in 2013 after playing rugby union for the Sacred Heart College First XV.

He made 26 NYC (under-20) appearances for the Vodafone Junior Warriors in 2013 and 2014 while also appearing for the club’s reserve grade side in 2014.

Making his NRL debut in 2015, he finishes his Vodafone Warriors career with 93 games in five seasons including 46 tries. His last appearance was the sixth-round loss to North Queensland.

He has represented Mate Ma’a Tonga since 2014 and also played five Tests for the Kiwis in their end-of-season campaign in 2016.