Rugby league commentator Andrew Voss has slammed Matt Lodge for walking out on NZ Warriors after being granted an early release from his contract.
The NRL club has announced the prop will leave the club after he couldn't commit to a long-term future in New Zealand.
"The opportunity for him to leave now allows us to move forward with our future planning and to develop our younger players," said chief executive Cameron George.
"We're grateful to Matt for the contribution he has made since joining us last year, and wish him and his family all the best for the future."
However, Voss has accused Lodge of taking Warriors "for a ride", when the Kiwi club signed him following his departure from Brisbane Broncos.
The NRL pundit and SEN host believes the 26-year-old has taken advantage of the Warriors, after they had offered him a rugby league lifeline.
"Couldn't commit to a long term future in New Zealand, despite signing with the @NZWarriors," Voss tweeted.
"In my opinion, Matt Lodge has taken Warriors for a ride, just used them as a transit lounge in his career. Warriors fans have reason to be disappointed."
Lodge cited family reasons for his departure, after playing just 14 games for the Warriors.
"I couldn't see my family living in New Zealand for a long-term future," said Lodge.
"Therefore we decided that the best thing for the club was for us to mutually part ways, so they have some clarity."
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