Leeds Rhinos' former Wigan Warriors and Warrington Wolves prop Dom Crosby announces retirement

The 29-year-old former Wigan Warriors and Warrington Wolves front-rower will retire at the end of this season, though he will not play before then.

Crosby joined Leeds during the 2018 season, making seven appearances, but has not played since a defeat by Toronto Wolfpack on September 28 that year.

Ankle and knee injuries kept him out of the whole of 2019 and it was hoped he would return this season, but he has been unable to recover enough to play.

Twice a Grand Final winner with Wigan, his hometown club, he announced his decision on social media.

He said: “I am truly gutted to be writing this, but unfortunately I have been forced to retire from rugby at the end of the season.

"After multiple surgeries and advice of surgeons and specialists, my last injury hasn't healed well enough for me to continue playing."

In an emotional statement, he stressed: “I've given everything; emotionally, physically and mentally to get back fit.

"Rugby has given me everything I could ever imagine, I've made some great memories, I've had amazing highs and also a few lows.

"I owe a lot to the people closest to me who kept me going and helped me through some of the toughest times I will ever go through, especially my wife who is my absolute rock and has been with me through every step of the way.

"She has seen me at my worst and always had a positive attitude and encouraged me in every way possible. I owe you everything.

“I've met some of the best people I could ever imagine through rugby and some of which I call my family now."

Crosby signed a three-year contract with Rhinos in 2018 and added: "A massive thanks to Leeds for sticking by me and supporting me through these tough times, I am truly grateful for how you have treated myself and my family the last couple of years.

"To Warrington Wolves for being there and supporting me through some of the worst times ever imaginable, thank you for being so understanding. To Wigan Warriors for letting me live my boyhood dream, playing for my hometown club, and giving me the opportunity of a lifetime.

“I know people have been frustrated by the amount of games I have unfortunately missed due to injury and personal problems, but if there was anything I could have done to get out there with my team mates, I would. I wish I could have done more.

“I feel proud and privileged to have represented three great clubs. To all the players, coaches, staff, directors, sponsors and fans I have had the privilege to play with and against, work and meet, thank you for everything.

"The support you have shown me throughout my career will live with me forever."

Rhinos director of rugby Kevin Sinfield described the announcement as "desperately sad news for Dom".

He said: "I know how much he wanted to get back on the field.

"Unfortunately, injuries are a cruel part of our game.

"Dom has always had our full support and he will remain a friend to everyone within the organisation.

"Hopefully, now he has confirmed his plans for beyond this season it will allow him to move on to the next chapter in the best possible fashion.”

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Laura Collins