Spice freed to play in Wales

Wellington and Hurricanes halfback Jason Spice has been released by the NZRU to pursue his career in Wales.

After a week of discussions, the NZRU yesterday decided not to force Spice to play out his contract, which runs until the end of 2006.

"It's a case by case basis," NZRU deputy chief executive Steve Tew said. "But players who have been here a long time and committed themselves to New Zealand rugby, when they ask for a favour they are treated more favourably than others."

Spice, 29, will take up a contract with Neath-Swansea on August 1.

Wellington coach John Plumtree said nothing stood to be gained from keeping Spice against his will.

"We are not stronger for losing Jason Spice. It's important to remember that, but when all is done and dusted I will sleep easier knowing he got the opportunity to play overseas."

Plumtree said he had tried to negotiate with Neath-Swansea, a club he has formerly played for himself, to keep Spice until the end of the NPC.

"But the opportunity would not have been there if he did not get there in August. He turns 30 pretty soon and would not have been able to get a work permit."

Plumtree said there was a host of talented halfbacks coming through the ranks in Wellington, but nobody of Spice's experience.

Spice played 64 games for the Hurricanes and appeared 55 times for Wellington after transferring from Waikato in 1999.