NRL 2023 retirements: Eels, Raiders legend Josh Hodgson forced to medically retire

English International and Eels hooker Josh Hodgson has announced he has been forced to medically retire from the game.

Josh Hodgson in action for Parramatta in 2023. Picture: NRL

English International and Eels hooker Josh Hodgson has announced he has been forced to medically retire from the game.

The 33-year-old said his career has been cut short by a recurring neck injury.

He took to social media to declare fulltime on his career, stating that he would hang up the boots knowing he had left nothing behind in his application and dedication to the game.

“This is never the way I thought I’d be announcing the end of my footy career, but unfortunately I have been forced to medically retire,” Hodgson said.

“In hindsight it’s probably a blessing because I have always tried pushing through when my body was broken and putting my teammates before everything, but it’s come at a cost.

“That’s professional rugby league I guess…we all know what we sign-up for. I have a lot to be grateful for though, which I what I have been trying to focus on.

“l’d like to thank every club I’ve represented in England and Australia and all the people I’ve worked with over the course of my career…staff behind the scenes, performance specialists, administrators, coaches and most importantly my teammates.

“I also want to thank the rugby league members and fans who we love playing in front of, through all the ups and downs.

“I am retiring knowing I gave everything physically and mentally to the game, every day.

“The hard work brought me a lot of joy, changed our lives and ultimately provided an opportunity to represent England, which is my proudest achievement.

“Last but certainly not least, to my wife Kirby, my kids and extended family…the unconditional love and support you provided was the reason I was able to do it for as long as I did, and for that I’ll forever be appreciative.

Josh Hodgson made a grand final with Canberra. Picture: NRL

Veteran hooker Josh Hodgson has retired. NRL Imagery

“I will be staying in the game which has given me everything, but for now I am looking forward to spending time with family and close friends as we enter the next chapter in our lives together.”

The 19-cap England international suffered two ACL tears during his time in Australia and required a further reconstruction on his right knee last year.

Hodgson played 138 games for Canberra, including captaining the Raiders to the 2019 grand final and a further 12 games this season for the Eels.

Originally published as NRL 2023 retirements: Eels, Raiders legend Josh Hodgson forced to medically retire