Greg Bird has been released from his contract with Cronulla and won't play for another National Rugby League club in the 2009 season.
After months of speculation, the former Test player's fate was announced late on Friday afternoon in a joint statement by his management and the Sharks.
He had been suspended by the club since last August after being charged with assaulting his girlfriend, Katie Milligan. The charges will be heard in April.
There has been speculation Bird will seek a playing contract in England.
