Pickersgill hangs up his boots

Widnes prop Steve Pickersgill has announced his retirement from the game with immediate effect.

Pickersgill, 28, hasn’t made an appearance this term, following injuries to his neck and knee, and after talks with the Vikings coaching team, medical staff and his family, has decided to hang up his boots.

He said: “Due to the injuries I’ve suffered over the past few seasons, my family and I have decided that now is the time to retire from the game.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time in professional Rugby League, especially the five years at Widnes Vikings.

“I just want to take this opportunity to thank everybody at the Club and especially the players I have played alongside. It’s now time for me to move on and begin a new chapter in my life and I would like to wish Widnes Vikings all the best for the future and hopefully silverware isn’t too far away.”

Pickersgill joined Widnes, initially on loan, in May 2009 from Warrington, and played in the Vikings’ Northern Rail Cup success that year.

He made a total of 123 career appearances, 82 of which were in Widnes colours.

Vikings coach Denis Betts said: “It’s been a very difficult decision for Steve to make and it will be sad to see him retire from the game. He’s given great service to the Club over a number of years and we wish him well for the future and whatever direction he takes.”