Former All Blacks Sevens and Samoan international Ben Lam has been released by Super League side Catalans Dragons after failing to earn a contract with the Rugby League club for 2025. 

The former All Blacks Sevens, Hurricanes, Bordeaux Begles and Montpellier man made the switch across to the 13-man game in August, but never made a first-team appearance for Les Dracs.

Ben Lam to leave Catalans Dragons despite ‘positive influence’

A statement issued by the Perpignan-based side, who have played in two of the previous four Super League Grand Finals, read: “Out of contract at the end of December, he will not sign a new deal with the Dragons for the 2025 season.

“Ben has been on a trial period with the objective of signing a Dragons SL contract. It was considered that, despite his efforts, it would be difficult for him to obtain game time in the positions in which he has experience.”

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It also pointed out his influence on the younger members of the squad: “He has been a positive influence on those young players around him, encouraging others and showing great humility at training and in games.”

“The club would like to thank him for his dedication and professionalism since his arrival and wish him all the best for the future.”

Whilst he failed to make a competitive appearance for the Dragons senior side, he did play five games for the club’s reserve side in the Super XIII, where he scored three tries.

Potential return to union?

Whilst it might not have worked out for Lam in the 13-man game, he would be a great pick-up for a union team, with a wealth of experience under his belt.

Lam made his Super Rugby debut with the Blues back in 2014, but properly made his name after a switch to the Hurricanes, where he made 51 appearances. A move to the Top 14 followed as he joined Bordeaux Begles, and later headed to Montpellier. The winger also made his Test debut for Samoa in 2023, and featured twice at the World Cup. Lam has also represented the All Blacks Sevens too.

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Src: Planetrugby.com - https://www.planetrugby.com/news/former-all-blacks-sevens-star-departs-super-league-giants-as-club-praises-his-dedication-and-professionalism-in-glowing-statement