Halifax hooker Keal Carlile has been forced to retire due to a heart condition.
The former Sheffield and Featherstone player had featured in just one game for Fax after joining from Newcastle Thunder, and has been advised to hang up his boots.
In a statement issued on Saturday Carlile said: “Not the news I wanted to hear but I knew something wasn’t right.
“I’ve been told by my cardiologist that I need to retire immediately.
“Basically without going into too much detail my aorta valve which I had replaced in 2011 to resume my playing career has now narrowed, resulting in my body and heart not being able to cope with the impact and intensity of Rugby League.
“It’s come as a massive shock to me and my family but it’s a decision that, when told by a specialist, I need to listen and do what’s right for my health and my family going forward in life.
“On the bright side I am proud to have played just short of 200 professional games, the majority of those coming after open heart surgery in 2011 which not many, if any, other players playing contact sport has ever done.
“It’s going to be weird for us all me no longer playing, but I look forward to the next chapter in life after rugby.”
Meanwhile Fax have taken Hull FC halfback Liam Harris on a month’s loan.
Fax football director Ian Croad said: “It’s no secret that Simon Grix has been looking for another halfback for a while and we think we’ve got a gem in Liam.
“It’s for an initial month because he’s travelling from Hull, it’s a new club and environment for him and we can have a look ay each other.
“But if all the boxes are ticked we’d like to keep him here for the season.”
Harris, 22, has made 11 appearances for Hull FC since making his debut in 2018 at the Magic Weekend in Newcastle against former side Hull KR.
