Sydney Roosters centre Josh Morris has confirmed he will retire from the game after 15 seasons at the top, giving him one final shot at ticking one of the only boxes he’s never ticked, an NRL premiership.
Morris will hang up the boots at the end of the 2021 season. He’s missed the last month with a hamstring injury, but is a chance of returning this weekend against Canberra.
The 35-year-old has played 322 first grade games.
“I’ve thought long and hard about this decision. I’ve been enjoying my footy and love being around the team we have here at the Roosters, but I’m very comfortable that this is the right call,” said Morris.
“I’ve been blessed to play 15 seasons in the toughest rugby league competition in the world. I’ve had some wonderful opportunities and made some lifelong friendships and memories along the way, right back to my junior days with the Kiama Knights.
“Since getting my start in the NRL, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to play with and be coached by some of the game’s best, both at club level and in the representative arena, and I’d like to extend my thanks to all my teammates and coaches over the years.”
Morris is the fourth high-profile Roosters player to retire in 2021, after twin brother Brett, Boyd Cordner and Jake Friend.
“I’d like to single out one teammate in particular, my brother Brett. To start and finish my career at the same club as Brett, and to share the memories we have is something I’ll always cherish.”
Morris debuted with the Dragons in 2007, before moving to Canterbury in 2009. He played 217 games for the Bulldogs, before joining Cronulla in 2019, and ultimately, the Roosters in 2020.
His 157 career tries places him at number 10 on the all-time list, just two behind Matt Sing and Hazem El-Masri.
Morris played six Tests for Australia and 15 State of Origin matches for New South Wales.
“It’s been a real joy to coach Josh over the last two seasons. To watch the way that he has gone about playing the game throughout his entire career is a reflection of the wonderful athlete and person that he is,” Roosters coach Trent Robinson said.
“Josh is one of the best of all time in his position, and his achievements, not only at Club level, but also in the representative arena, deserve to be celebrated.
“We all love Josh. He has been incredibly generous in sharing his experience with the younger players around him, and we look forward to seeing out the year together.”
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