Craig Smith to retire at the end of
the season

Craig Smith has announced that he will retire from the game at the end of the current season.

Craig Smith said,

"I was considering playing for another season, particularly as I feel that I am enjoying the game more than ever. After discussions with the club however, I have agreed that it might be the right time to call it a day. I feel sad in many ways as I am enjoying my Rugby League very much at the moment and Wigan is a great place to be right now. I wouldn't want to play anywhere else after my great time here, and I want to bring success to the club in my final season."

Commenting on Smith's retirement, Chairman Maurice Lindsay said,

"Craig has been an outstanding player for us and one of our most important signings in recent years. His professionalism has been a shining example to the young players at our club and everyone has learned a lot from his time with us. He will be 34 at the end of the season, but he is still without doubt one of the best Props in the game. I think he is right to call it a day whilst he is right at the top of his form, and he will be long remembered by the Wigan fans."

Coach Denis Betts added,

"We will miss Craig's enthusiasm and leadership but everyone has to retire sometime. He will be a hard act to follow and he has certainly been a fans favourite."