Cameron Smith set a benchmark for Queensland Maroons – Kevin Walters

Dejan Kalinic

Cameron Smith set a benchmark for Queensland Maroons – Kevin Walters image

Queensland coach Kevin Walters labelled Cameron Smith as the "benchmark" for the Maroons after the hooker's shock retirement from representative rugby league.

The Melbourne Storm captain, 34, announced on Tuesday he had played his last games for the Maroons and Australia.

Smith helped Queensland claim 11 of the past 12 State of Origin series, while he also won two Rugby League World Cups during a glittering representative career.

Walters, who faced a news conference alongside Smith, was full of praise for the brilliant hooker.

MORE: Why Cam Smith's rep retirement might not be good news for NSW

"I think his performance in game three of last year's State of Origin series was one of the best I've seen of anyone at that level and he was at 34 years of age," said Walters.

"To me, that speaks volumes again of the person and character that he is. He's set a benchmark for everyone that's put on a Maroon jersey in his tenure.

"For mine, watching him over the years and coaching him, I know he's been a great player but more importantly he's been a great person.

"Respect and humility – he shows that every day. One of the great things I respect about Cameron is how he conducts himself in every aspect of his life."

Smith made a record 42 Origin appearances for Queensland, while he played 56 games for the Kangaroos.

Australia coach Mal Meninga said Smith set an example for generations to follow.

"Cameron is a wonderful captain, both in the way he plays on the field as well as the way he carries himself off the field," said Meninga, via NRL.com

"He has been an outstanding representative of the Kangaroos' values in the green and gold. He is highly competitive and highly respected but above all that he is a great person.

"Obviously he will be missed but what he has done over 56 matches for the Kangaroos as well as during his time with the Maroons will leave an important legacy for future players and future leaders."

Dejan Kalinic