Gateshead Thunder may have to release prop Puna Rasaubale from his contract, after the Fijian international withdrew his visa application on Friday.

The 22-year-old was in the process of switching to a sportsman's permit from a working holiday visa so he could take up the contract he signed last October.

Coach Chris Hood said: "I am hugely upset and annoyed at Puna's decision, and the timing of it.

"The whole process has been long and time-consuming for everyone."

Rasaubale, who was signed by the club in October 2008 with a glowing reputation as a powerful, physical forward, admitted he had lost patience with the timescale involved in the application process.

I hope everyone can understand my frustration and disappointment. Puna Rasaubale

"The visa application has been a difficult process and I must say it has got the better of me," said Rasaubale.

"Further time and effort will not be put into it and I believe the reality has to be faced that I will not return.

"I hope everyone can understand my frustration and disappointment. I hope we can part on good terms."

The decision means Hood is now forced to look elsewhere for extra cover in the forwards.

However Hood will see his side bolstered by the arrival of three new signings - Kris Kahler, Paul Youngquest and Nick Franze - from French Elite League side Pia Donkeys when their season finishes at the end of May.

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