Gallen confirms State of Origin retirement

  • 30/03/2016
Paul Gallen (AAP)
Paul Gallen (AAP)

NSW captain Paul Gallen has officially announced that this year's State of Origin will be his last for the Blues.

If the Sharks stalwart plays all three games, he will retire as the most capped Origin player alongside Brad Fittler and Andrew Ettinghausen.

Gallen admitted his most recent injury in Cronulla's season-opener against the Cowboys was the catalyst behind his decision to step aside following this year's campaign.

"It was probably after I did my knee in Round 1. I just had a chat with my missus and a few close friends and probably thought it was time to give it one last crack and move on," Gallen said.

"I've had some great times here. I just want to have one more good time and hopefully finish with the win.

"Unfortunately I'm not going to be seen for having the success that others have had because of NSW's success. But I don't think there's a doubt as to why Queensland hate me so much, and that's because I do my job on the field. I'll always be proud of that.

"I've always put my foot forward for anyone I've played with. I think I'll be remembered as a tough, good Origin player and hopefully I can go out on a high."

NSW coach Laurie Daley paid tribute to Gallen, calling him a "warrior".

"Paul has been a great warrior for NSW and now that he's made that call he'll be doing everything he can to go out a winner," Daley said.

"There are not too many players who have played 20-plus games for NSW, so fingers crossed he can stay injury-free and go out on his own terms.

"He will be remembered as a player who left nothing in the sheds. He has given everything to the Blues jumper, expending all his energy on the field and giving it his all for his teammates."

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