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Broncos' PNG international calls time on NRL career

(Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)

David Mead has called time on his brilliant NRL career, the veteran outside back retiring after 171 games and 75 tries.

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The 33-year-old Bronco has announced his retirement with immediate effect, having wrapped up his international career with Papua New Guinea just last month in the Pacific Test.

He’s been back with the Broncos since last year, but hasn’t made any appearances this season.

Mead debuted with the Titans in 2009 and scored 67 tries in 147 outings before moving to Brisbane for the 2017 campaign.

He also spent three years in the Super League at Catalans Dragons, scoring 29 tries in 58 games.

The lethal finisher will also be remembered for his passionate service to PNG as captain, scoring 10 tries in 15 games for the Kumuls and leading them at the 2017 World Cup.

Mead thanked all those involved in making his “dream” of playing elite rugby league come true.

“This game has given and taught me a lot … I will always be grateful for my time playing footy,” he said.

“Thank you to all my teammates, the coaching staff and the many people who have been involved with the game over the last 14 years – you have all played an important and valuable part in my development as a player and as a person.

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“Thank you to my family who have been with me since day one … I look forward to experiencing the next chapter of our life together.”

Brisbane coach Kevin Walters said the club had been lucky to have him.

“His longevity in the game is testament to his professionalism and his attention to detail in his training and preparation for games, plus he is one of the nicest blokes you will ever meet,” he said.

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H
Hellhound 2 hours ago
The Springboks have something you don't have

Rassie has done very well with the Boks. The well will certainly not dry up soon. The amount of young talent coming through, that don't even stand a chance of making it in before 2027, is just absolutely amazing.


However, Rassie has proven to be a rugby genius. He will never rest on his laurels. It's why he keeps evolving tactics, keeping everyone on their toes. He doesn't underestimate any team. He is very aware of just how close the top teams is.


There will be no complacency not will he relax with his main stars. He is very astute, knowing that his team is getting older and thus giving the younger players much more playtime than what any other coach would do.


By the time the 2027 WC comes around, he will be prepared to defend his title and he knows one bad day will end a triple WC crown. Competition is that close. The Boks are in transition, even though it doesn't look like it.


After the 2027 WC, most of the double (possible triple) WC champs players will become unavailable due to retirement from international rugby. Rassie is already preparing the replacements, getting caps under their belts.


The top teams is just too close to underestimate and no Bok will be allowed to get complacent. Although they are by far the current most successful team and clearly the best by miles, they are not undefeatable.


Very tough to beat yes, but they can lose on the day. I am not worried. The youngsters by 2027 WC will be experienced with lots of years ahead and that should be a warning to the rest of the pack biting at their heels. Love them or hate them, but you have to admire the Boks. They truely deserve to be top dogs currently.

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