NRL star Luke Lewis to retire at end of campaign

Former Australia and New South Wales ace Luke Lewis will hang up his boots at the end of the 2018 season.

The 34-year-old has played a total of 315 games for Penrith Panthers and Cronulla Sharks in the NRL during his 18-year career, scoring 119 tries.

Lewis earned 16 caps for Australia as well as representing New South Wales at Origin level on 17 occasions.

On his career, the back-rower said: “It’s been an awesome 18 years and I’ve loved every minute of it. I’ll retire with great memories.

“My family and friends have obviously given me great support over the years, I’ve made long-time and what will be life-long friendships, with people in and around the game but also outside of footy, and I also want to give a massive thanks to the fans.

“I’ve had fantastic support, not just at the Sharks, not only when I was at the Panthers, but from rugby league fans in general people who have always supported and stuck by me. I couldn’t have got to where I am now without them.

“Growing up in the area and playing for Penrith was a huge thrill for me and I’m thankful for the years I spent at the Panthers and I’m grateful for the opportunity to come to the Sharks six years ago.

“Playing in a Grand Final at the Sharks and to win the first Premiership in the club’s history, the mates I’ve made while I’ve been here, it’s some I’ll hold for the rest of my life.”

Lewis was won two NRL Grand Finals, a World Cup and two Four Nations tournaments. He also won the Clive Churchill medal in Cronulla’s Grand Final win over Melbourne Storm in 2016.