Ben Westwood to retire at season’s end

Drew Darbyshire 31 Jul 2019 11:17 AM

Warrington forward Ben Westwood has confirmed he will retire from the game at the end of the current season.

The 38-year-old is currently in his 18th season with Warrington after joining the club when he was 20 from Wakefield.

Westwood has scored 138 tries in 479 club appearances and earned 26 caps for England between 2004-13.

He commented said: “It’s been a difficult decision but one that had to be made. I think the time is right.

“I’ve achieved what I wanted to in the game and 21 years is a long time to play a contact sport like we do. I’ve loved every single minute of it and have achieved some amazing things with some amazing people.

“There’s still time to achieve some more this year too but sadly at the end of this one that will be it for me. I am looking forward to relaxing and becoming a fan though and watching from the stands. It’s sad that this time has to come but it was always going to and at 38 years old I haven’t done badly.

“To convert a Yorkshire man to stay out of Yorkshire for 18 years shows the club is doing something right. It’s been fantastic. I’ve played against some great players, in some big teams, making so many friends and so many memories; the last game at Wilderspool stands out, the first game at the HJ with the start of a new era and the 2010 Challenge Cup Final walking out with Tyler.

“I am going to be working with the backroom staff and in the office, and coaching the women’s team too. I will still be around, still be involved in the club, which will hopefully make the transition a little bit easier.”