Leicester Tigers release lock Sam Carter

Leicester Tigers have confirmed that Australia lock Sam Carter has been granted an early release from his contract.

Born in Sydney, Carter started his career with Brumbies and featured for New South Wales Country Eagles, Canberra Vikings and Ulster before joining the Tigers in 2023.

He has made 15 appearances for the club but now will head back to Australia joining Western Force in their ongoing Super Rugby Pacific campaign.

"We’ve really enjoyed Sam being at the club and I know he’s proud to have been a Tiger.," said Leicester General Manager Richard Wilks.

"When the opportunity presented itself for him and his young family to return to Australia we were happy to grant him an early release from his contract.

"Sam goes with our best wishes for the season with the Western Force."

Leicester Tigers are positioned seventh in the Gallagher Premiership table with seven wins from 13 matches. They will now face Newcastle Falcons in the 14th round at Kingston Park Stadium on Friday.