Ben Flower hangs up his boots
Leigh prop Ben Flower has announced his retirement from rugby league.
The 33-year-old made more than 250 career appearances for Crusaders, Wigan and Leigh.
Flower won three Super League titles, a Challenge Cup and a World Club Challenge whilst with Wigan between 2012-20.
The Welshman joined Leigh ahead of this season but injury limited him to four appearances for the Centurions.
Well it’s that time I think all players dread to talk about and this is mine,” Flower posted on Instagram. “It’s finally my time to call it a day in rugby league at the end of the season. For all the injuries and knocks it’s been worth it.
“As a kid you never think this day will come when you become a professional, but unfortunately it does.”
Flower won 17 caps for Wales and represented his country at the 2013 World Cup.
He added: “Firstly, I think I need to start off by thanking my beautiful family – Laura and my boys for always being there in the tough times and celebrating with me in good times. Most of my career I’ve been a grumpy git on gameday so I’m very sorry for all that! Now that weight is off my shoulders, so hopefully I can relax a bit more. Dad – thank you for taking me up and down the country as a kid which made me get to where I am today. Thank you for everything.
“Secondly, I want to thank the teams – Crusaders, Wigan and Leigh, and also all my coaches who have invested there time into me over these last 14 seasons. I’ve been honoured and privileged to have walked away with many trophies with my long spell at Wigan Warriors, which I can’t thank Shaun Wane and all the staff enough for.
“But I think the most thanks needs to go to the lads who I played alongside for so many years. I can honestly say there’s a few legends in all that and friends for life. Boys, you all know who your are and thank you for being by my side on an off the field
“To all the fans from all the clubs who supported me and the teams over the years and to the ones who stuck by me in my darkest days – I’m very grateful for all this. To the all the lads I locked horns with on the field and for making it a battle – I hope I gave you that too.
“Lastly a special mention to Wales RL, it was a honour to have played for my country. To my coaches and player agent Iestyn (Harris), thanks for everything you’ve done.
“This is me signing off as a professional rugby player which makes me so sad yet so happy to start a new career in whatever that might be. Much love to you all.”