Bradford Bulls have accepted a request from Ben Blackmore to be released from his contract with immediate effect, due to increased work commitments away from the sport.

The 31-year-old arrived at the club ahead of the 2023 season, going on to make 28 appearances, but only three of those have come this year due to injuries.

The departing Blackmore told the club website: “Due to my work away from rugby, I am unable to commit to the amount of training required to be fighting at the top of the Championship, with standards and expectations increasing year on year as the club is hell bent on returning to Super League imminently.

“I can’t speak highly enough of my experience at the club, from when I arrived, dealing with injuries and how they’ve handled my situation and contract termination.

“I’d like to thank the staff, players and supporters and wish the club nothing but the best.”

Bradford Bulls head coach Eamon O’Carroll said: “It’s a difficult one.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Eamon O'Carroll has lost a key first-team player in Ben Blackmore.Eamon O'Carroll has lost a key first-team player in Ben Blackmore. (Image: Tom Pearson)

“Ben is a very likeable character, but his outside career has taken off and he is forever texting me saying he can’t make training.

“That affects him because he cares about this club, he wants to be here and be fully invested, but knows he can’t be.

“It’s disappointing to lose him but he’s left on great terms and I want to wish him and his family all the best.

“He now gets to spend time with his young family and hopefully he will come back and support the boys.

“Unfortunately with sport, it’s the nature of the beast, the club is moving in a different direction now, we need everyone fully on board and Ben unfortunately couldn’t commit.”

Bulls have thanked Blackmore for his efforts during his time at the club and and wish him the best of luck moving forward.