Bird and Sharks cut their losses

Greg Bird and the Cronulla Sharks have finally parted ways with both parties agreeing to terminate the former Test five-eighth's contract.

It's understood the release agreement includes a condition where Bird will not register an NRL contract for 2009 nor play for another NRL club during the 2009 season.

This afternoon's joint statement announcement ends months of speculation which began last August when Bird allegedly 'glassed' girlfriend Kate Milligan in the face.

Bird was stood down by the Sharks and charged by police. He is due to make a court appearance on April 27 on charges of reckless wounding, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and two charges of lying to police.

The Sharks board tried to sack Bird last December but were stalled by a late submission from the player's legal representatives.

The ongoing saga was proving costly for the Sharks, with Bird on $360,000 per year and still receiving payment whilst suspended. The club has reportedly paid out more than $100,000 since Bird was stood down.

There is now renewed speculation that Bird will attempt to join either Wigan or Warrington in the European Super League.