Penrith forward Tim Grant has played his last NRL game – confirming today that he has terminated his playing contract with the club.
It comes after the 31-year-old suffered a pectoral injury against Manly last weekend.
While there was a small chance he could successfully rehabilitate the injury and play again this season, Grant has instead opted to undergo season-ending surgery and terminate his one-year deal with Panthers.
Grant’s decision will give Penrith flexibility to tweak their top squad of 30 players.
“While it’s obviously disappointing for my time with Panthers to end in these circumstances, I’m immensely proud of what I’ve achieved at the club,” Grant said.
OFFICIAL. Tim Grant has informed the club and teammates of his decision to terminate his playing contract, effective immediately.
📝 https://t.co/aXhz3iAxdR#pantherpride 🐾 pic.twitter.com/AGyX1j3Td5
— Penrith Panthers (@PenrithPanthers) June 5, 2019
“I want to thank all the Panthers members and fans for their kindness and support over the years.
“I strongly believe in where this club is going and I don’t want to stand in the way of the next local junior getting his chance in the NRL.”
Panthers coach Ivan Cleary paid tribute to Grant’s contribution to the club, particularly the positive impact he made this season.
“Tim has been a true professional that our younger players have been able to learn from,” he said.
“He demonstrates a ‘team first’ and ‘club first’ mentality, and through persistence and consistency of performance, he earned a starting spot this season.
“We extend our sincere thanks to Tim for his years of service to the club and wish him all the best for the future.”
Sad way to go out but congratulations Tim Grant on a wonderful NRL career. He'll be missed greatly! #ThanksTG
— Nathan Taylor (@NateTaylor87) June 5, 2019
Grant has played 129 NRL games for Penrith and also had stints at Souths and the Wests Tigers.
He played two Origin games for NSW in 2012 and also represented City Origin, the Prime Minister’s XIII and the NRL All Stars.
