Michael Morgan announces immediate retirement

North Queensland Cowboys co-captain Michael Morgan has announced his immediate retirement from the game on medical grounds.

The 29-year-old’s retirement comes on medical grounds after issues to his right shoulder, which he injured in round two against St George Illawarra Dragons.

Morgan only ever played for the Cowboys, making 169 appearances for the club and helped them win the NRL Premiership in 2015 and the World Club Challenge the following season.

Morgan won 12 caps for Australia and helped the Kangaroos win the World Cup in 2017. He also played 12 games for Queensland in State of Origin.

He said: “This is not the way I envisioned my career finishing, but I’m retiring knowing I gave myself every opportunity over the last 12 months for my shoulder to be strong enough to continue playing. Unfortunately, the end result was out of my control.

“Even though I’m hanging up the boots at 29, I’m extremely proud of everything I achieved over the course of 12 seasons as an NRL player.

“As someone who was born and raised in Townsville, the opportunity to join the Cowboys as a 16-year-old was fulfilling a lifelong dream and I’m grateful for every moment at this great club.

“Listing every person who contributed to my career would be impossible, but to all my team-mates, coaches, everyone who supported me throughout my career, including Cowboys members and fans and most importantly my family – thank you.”