Brumbies release Enever on compassionate grounds

Sun, Jun 21, 2020, 6:30 AM
Beth Newman
by Beth Newman
Blake Enever is leaving the Brumbies. Photo: Getty Images
Blake Enever is leaving the Brumbies. Photo: Getty Images

Brumbies lock Blake Enever has been released from his contract for family reasons.

The ACT franchise announced his departure on Sunday afternoon, just under two weeks out from the opening round of Super Rugby AU.

Enever was contracted until the end of the 2020 season but requested an early release to move back to Queensland and be closer to his family, which the Brumbies granted.

The second rower had spent time in Queensland during the sporting shutdown in recent months, rehabilitating a lower leg injury that hampered the start of his season.

In a statement on Sunday afternoon, Enever said he was grateful to the Brumbies for being understanding of his circumstances.

"I'd really like to thank the Brumbies organisation for being so understanding of my situation and allowing me to be closer to my family at this time," he said.

"The Brumbies gave me an opportunity back in 2015 and I've got nothing but great memories of my time pulling on the jersey.

"It's a really special club and I'd also like to thank the community and supporters for welcoming me and making me feel at home Canberra, especially those involved at Easts rugby club."

Brumbies coach Dan McKellar said Enever had made himself a big part of the team and the wider community.

"Blake was a great contributor to the club over a number of years and he's a really decent person, so when he asked to be closer to his family during these tough times we understood," he said.

"He really embraced the culture of the club and was heavily involved and well liked in the Canberra community.

"We wish Blake and his family all the best in the future and they will always be welcome here at the Plus500 Brumbies."

Enever has amassed 50 Super Rugby caps over his career, starting out in 2012 with the Queensland Reds before playing 49 matches for the Brumbies from 2015.

The 28-year-old was a surprise Wallabies debutant on the 2017 Spring Tour, playing two Tests, against England and Scotland.

Innjuries hindered his opportunities in 2020 and it is unclear what his rugby future holds from here.

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