Ben Barba loss hurts but the right choice, writes Phil Rothfield

BEN Barba’s decision to quit rugby league is disappointing and another blow to the NRL. But it’s a win for himself and the Cronulla Sharks, writes PHIL ROTHFIELD.

Ben Barba will play for Toulon after leaving the Sharks and the NRL.

BEN Barba’s decision to quit rugby league is a win for himself and the Cronulla Sharks.

Barba gets the big money guaranteed and the Sharks can move forward without the unsettling speculation about his return and a showdown with Val Holmes for the fullback jersey.

Cronulla rightfully wouldn’t give Barba the long-term commitment that Toulon have.

Out of respect for his role in last year’s grand final victory, coach Shane Flanagan offered him the chance return to the team once his cocaine suspension was completed.

But it was only for six months. The coach wanted to be sure Barba wouldn’t go off the rails again.

It would have been easy to sign him for another three years which would have kept him in the NRL.

But he had done the wrong thing and the Sharks wanted to wait until the end of the season before talking about longer term options.

Barba could have backed himself and stayed.

If he played as well as last season, not only the Sharks but other NRL clubs would be interested.

He could again earn a $500,000-plus contract.

Instead he’s taken the safer option. He wanted and needed Toulon’s $2.5 million to secure the future of his partner and four beautiful little girls.

So one of the game’s most exciting players is lost from rugby league at just 27.

It’s disappointing but the best result for all parties.