Brisbane Broncos captain Corey Parker has announced his retirement from the game at the end of the season.
Parker, who was voted into last year’s World XIII, has made 336 NRL appearances so far, more than any other forward in history.
The 34-year-old is set to play his final State of Origin game on home soil when Queensland face NSW on Wednesday night.
“I have been very fortunate to fulfil a childhood dream to play for the Broncos,” said Parker.
“At some stage all good things come to an end, and 2016 will be the end of my playing career, but the start of my new journey off the field in which I will remain part of the game.
“I’d like to thank my family and close friends, my teammates and coaches over 16 years, the Broncos’ club, members and fans, and the game of rugby league as a whole.”
He made his NRL debut in 2001 before earning selection for Queensland in 2004.
It wasn’t until 2011 that he earned his first Australia call-up, eventually going on to play a part in their 2013 World Cup triumph.
“Corey is a role model for what the Broncos stand for as a club – he started here as a teenager and will finish his career here,” said Broncos’ chief executive Paul White.
“Not many people get to do that in the NRL, but he has earned that respect and the right to retire on his own terms.
