Wade Graham NRL retirement: Cronulla Sharks veteran set to hang up the boots at end of 2023

Sharks veteran Wade Graham has announced he will retire at the end of the 2023 season, bringing an end to a tremendous rugby league career.

The 32-year-old has been a prominent fixture in the NRL since making his debut for Penrith in 2008, notching close to 300 appearances in the top grade.

Graham was part of Cronulla's maiden premiership victory in 2016, while also representing both NSW and Australia throughout his playing career.

The versatile back-rower will captain the Sharks in their Round 24 clash with the Titans, with the side looking to push towards the upcoming finals series. 

MORE: Broncos coach confident in long-term success | Sam Burgess signs head coaching deal

Sharks veteran Wade Graham announces NRL retirement

In a club statement released on Tuesday night, Cronulla revealed the uncompromising second-rower would finish his career at the conclusion of this year. 

"On a night which had been arranged to recognise the 250-game milestone, Graham spoke emotionally about his decision to hang up the boots after a journey which has included premiership success and representative honours.  
He will step away from the game once the Sharks current season comes to an end," the statement said. 

"Graham delivered the news to the 2023 Sharks NRL playing group, as well as family and close friends including former teammates Paul Gallen, Luke Lewis, Adrew Fifita, Todd Carney, Boyd Cordner from his time in NSW and Kangaroo squads, and Sharks premiership winning coach Shane Flanagan.  

"Graham has been named to captain the Sharks in their game against the Titans on Friday night, while expressing to the room his determination to finish his career on a positive note."

Graham has played 292 NRL games across his time at the Panthers and Sharks, as well as six State of Origin appearances for NSW and eight Test matches for Australia. 

Wade Graham career record