Kelleher leaves Stade Francais

Paris - Former New Zealand scrumhalf Byron Kelleher has left Stade Francais with immediate effect, just over a year before his contract was due to expire, he said on Thursday.

"Mr Byron Kelleher wishes to confirm the end of his contract with Stade Francais," a statement on his personal website (www.byron.kelleher.rugbyunit.fr) read, adding he would unveil his future plans at a later date.

Kelleher, who had joined Top 14 rivals Toulouse in 2007 before moving to Paris, won 57 caps with the All Blacks from 1999-2007.

This season, he made only 12 Top 14 appearances, starting four games.