Canterbury captain Josh Jackson has decided to retire from professional rugby league.
The shock decision comes just two years after a three-year contract extension, freeing up salary cap space for the Bulldogs and forcing them to find a new skipper. The former NSW and Australian striker made his 241 NRL appearances for the ‘Family Club’.
“Josh has been at the heart of the Bulldogs for a long time,” Bulldogs president John Khoury said.
“He led this great club with pride. He bled blue and white and played for his state and for his country. We know this decision has not been easy and although it is a sad day there is no doubt that despite the fact that he did not lace up the boots and did not run in 2023, he will continue to inspire the Bulldogs team and our community for many years to come. come.
“We can’t thank him enough for all he has done for our club, but now is the time to reflect and celebrate his wonderful career.”
Jackson – like club legends Hazem El Masri, Steve Mortimer, Terry Lamb, Chris Anderson, Andrew Ryan and Aiden Tolman – is one of the few to have worn the blue and white jersey more than 200 times. The 31-year-old played 11 seasons in top-flight rugby league for the Bulldogs and scored 24 tries throughout his decorated career.
In addition to his club level appearances, Jackson has also represented his state and country, won the Brad Fittler Medal, was named Dally M Second Rower of the Year twice, won the Provan Summons Medal and has was an inspirational captain for the club which allowed him to fulfill a childhood dream.
Jackson, who hails from Gulgong, NSW, made his NRL debut in Round 16 of 2012 for the Belmore-based club and has remained a loyal member of the Bulldogs squad ever since.
He was a member of the 2014 NRL Grand Final squad and was named captain in an emotional announcement during the 2018 pre-season, following the departure of fellow Bulldogs great James Graham .
