Rugby:Luke McAlister has negotiated an early release from his contracts with the New Zealand Rugby Union to join French side Toulouse. The 27-year-old will be released from both his New Zealand and North Harbour playing contracts following the ITM Cup match against Counties Manukau tomorrow.

McAlister’s release follows his failure to make the All Blacks squad for the World Cup which starts next month in New Zealand. North Harbour Rugby chief executive Brett Hollister said: “We’ve worked with the NZRFU to negotiate an appropriate release with Luke, including an early release fee.

“We’re obviously very disappointed that he is leaving during our 2011 ITM Cup campaign as our season was planned on the expectation Luke would play for us. The reality is he wishes to start his new contract in Toulouse this month and for us that means finishing the ITM Cup season without him.”

NZRU general manager professional rugby Neil Sorensen said: “While this is a disappointing end to Luke’s career in New Zealand, we have agreed that this is the best outcome for everyone involved and we wish him well.”