Rugby league has farewelled one of the game's true icons with Benji Marshall officially announcing his retirement.
The veteran playmaker announced on Wednesday, following South Sydney's grand final loss to Penrith, that 2021 would be his last season as he calls time on his illustrious 19-season NRL career.
Marshall hangs up the boots after 346 games since making his debut for the Tigers in 2003 and going on to also play for the Dragons, Broncos and Rabbitohs.
He will be remembered as one of New Zealand's finest players, having amassed 31 Test caps for the Kiwis, leading them to the 2008 World Cup title and captaining the nation between 2008 and 2012.
“I feel privileged and grateful to have had the career that I have had,” Marshall said.
“I started as just a young kid from Whakatane who was chasing his dreams and will leave as a better man who reached those dreams. I cannot thank Rugby League enough for everything it has given me.
“I am extremely proud of my career. I’m proud of the longevity of playing 19 seasons, proud of winning a premiership, proud to represent my country and to win a World Cup, and I’m proud of winning a Golden Boot too.
“But the thing of which I’m most proud is the countless times I have had to pick myself up and fight back from the many setbacks that were thrown at me throughout my career.
“I want to thank the Wests Tigers, the St George Illawarra Dragons, the Brisbane Broncos and, of course, the South Sydney Rabbitohs for the opportunity to play for those great clubs. Special mention goes to the Tigers where I am a Life Member and it’s a club that has always been a big part of my life.
“Thank you to South Sydney for allowing me this opportunity to finish my career this way on a high and to go out on my terms."
Marshall's career was at a crossroads this time last year when he was told by the Wests Tigers he was surplus to requirements for 2021.
The 36-year-old came close to hanging up the boots but made a last-ditch call to Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett, who handed Marshall a lifeline at Redfern.
Marshall went on to feature in 22 games this season for Bennett's side, playing a pivotal role off the bench as a utility while also slotting in in the halves at times throughout the year.
Amid widespread speculation he could hang up the boots at the end of this season, Marshall had remained tight-lipped in the lead up to this year's grand final, hinting he could play on into a 20th campaign.
It was rumoured immediately after the Rabbitohs 14-12 loss in the decider Marshall had been offered a deal to join the Gold Coast Titans for next season.
However, it's understood he decided to retire midway through the finals series and informed Rabbitohs teammates of his decision after the grand final loss to Penrith.
More to come