Spencer could be released from NZRU contract

Carlos Spencer's All Blacks career may already have ended. File picture

The New Zealand Rugby Union has not ruled out granting All Blacks and Blues first five-eighth Carlos Spencer an early release from his contract if he decides to play in England.

It was reported today that Spencer has flown to London to hammer out a deal with one of three English rugby clubs as his lengthy career here appears to be winding down.

Spencer, who is sidelined from the Super 12 with a fractured cheekbone, was expected to talk to Northampton, Harlequins and London Irish.

But any move to the Northern hemisphere would have to be sanctioned by the NZRU and Auckland unions with whom he is contracted until the end of next year.

NZRU deputy chief executive Steve Tew said today they were waiting for an approach from Spencer before even considering any talk about prematurely ending his contract.

"We wouldn't be having that discussion with Carlos via the media," he said.

"So we'll wait for an approach from Carlos and deal with it when it comes. We weigh up a number of factors when we get those requests."

While not ruling out the possibility of releasing Spencer, Tew said there were numerous factors that needed to be considered when a player asks for an early release.

"Putting Carlos aside, in principle what we look at first and foremost is what the contractual commitment of the player is.

"So if he's in contract and he's got time remaining, we will evaluate his enumeration reflecting the length of term he's committed to."

Tew said in some cases a player may have to refund the union any money paid in advance.

"We also ask the provincial union and Super 12 franchise, what they think of letting the player go because they're also important to the team and squad make-up, and we always consult the All Blacks selectors.

"However in most cases, and because they tend to be senior players, we look at the loyalty and commitment they've shown us and try and reflect that in making a fair decision.

"We treat every case on its merits."

This year the NZRU granted an early release to All Blacks halfback Justin Marshall, who has signed a two-year contract with Leeds commencing after this year's British and Irish Lions tour.

It is understood Auckland Rugby Union would agree to free Spencer, who has played 96 games for the Blues and 94 for Auckland.

Spencer has played 35 test since his debut in 1995, but appears to be down the pecking order of All Blacks first five-eighths behind the Canterbury pairing of Dan Carter and Andrew Mehrtens.

Before his recent injury, Tasesa Lavea was first choice starting pivot for the Blues.

- NZPA