Wiki announces retirement

Kiwi legend turns down chance to end career in Super League

By Richard Bailey   Last updated: 14th October 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Wiki announces retirement

Wiki: Called time on illustrious career

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New Zealand legend Ruben Wiki has confirmed his retirement from the game, thus ending any speculation of a move to the engage Super League.

The 35-year-old had been linked with a number of leading Super League clubs but has instead opted to hang up his boots and pursue community based and promotional opportunities outside the game.

Wiki enjoyed a fairytale finish to his glittering career when he scored a 70-metre try in his New Zealand swansong for the All Golds versus New Zealand Maori in New Plymouth on Sunday.

The New Zealander has racked up a world record 55 Tests for the Kiwis and a record 312 NRL games for Canberra and New Zealand Warriors. Wiki admits it was time to move on.

He said: "I've had a great time playing alongside so many players, and it's been a lot of fun being able to say goodbye to all the supporters over the last few weeks."

Wiki concedes that although he did have the option of playing in Super League retirement was an obvious choice to make.

He added: "I could have played on, but to be honest, enjoying the finals run with the Warriors and then playing for the All Golds has been the perfect way to finish. I couldn't have hoped for better."

Wiki now has his sights set on the upcoming World Cup and he joined the Kiwi camp on Monday. The 35-year-old will act as a mentor to the New Zealand players.