Former New Zealand international Paul Whatuira could be on the lookout for an NRL club to squeeze into after being granted a release from his English Super League side.

The 28-year-old two-time grand final winner requested to return to Australia on compassionate grounds and the Huddersfield Giants agreed to the immediate release.

Whatuira has rarely figured for Nathan Brown's men this season due to a leg injury and has also experienced some high-profile personal problems - most notably his arrest in October 2009 which led to him entering a psychiatric hospital after admitting he had been abused as a child.

If the classy centre is looking to resume his career straight away, he'd be a handy pick up for a side with room to move in their salary cap.

"In the long-term interest of the player he needs a break to get his leg right and recharge his batteries ahead of his next career move," said Huddersfield general manager Richard Thewlis.

"We all hope that a good break will enable him to return back to rugby league, at his best."

Whatuira, who joined Huddersfield from Wests Tigers ahead of the 2008 season, thanked the Giants for supporting him throughout his time at the Galpharm Stadium.

"I have really enjoyed my time at Huddersfield and the club has supported me and my family through some difficult times," he said.

"I wish them every success in the future and am looking forward to a break and then to returning to action fully fit."

Whatuira, who played for Huddersfield in their Challenge Cup loss to Warrington last season, made a total of 55 appearances for the club.

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