Ben Lowe retires

South Sydney Rabbitohs forward Ben Lowe has announced his retirement from Rugby League following an NRL career that has spanned eight seasons.

Lowe, 30, played 117 first grade games for South Sydney between 2008 and 2015, having made his first grade debut against the Bulldogs in round two of the 2008 season.

In 2010, Ben was named 18th man for the Queensland State of Origin side, played lock in the Rabbitohs' victory in the 2015 World Club Challenge, and was part of the Rabbitohs' squad for the 2014 Grand Final.

Unfortunately injuries have forced Lowe to retire, with consideration to life after football for him and his family.

In announcing his retirement, Lowe says he has many great memories from his time at the Rabbitohs.

"Due to injuries I've had to make the difficult decision to retire from football immediately. It hasn't been the easiest decision to make but after long conversations with family and loved ones it was the best for my welfare and the best for my family as we head into life after football," Lowe said.

"I would like to take the opportunity to thank ‘Madge' (Rabbitohs Head Coach Michael Maguire), the coaching staff and all the boys for their understanding in my decision.

"I would also like to thank all of the Members and fans of the Rabbitohs for all the support they have given me over the nine years I've had at the Club. This Club has been a second home to me and it will be a place that will always stay close to my heart.

"I have so many fantastic memories here, from having the chance to play with my brother Jaiman at the highest level, to some of the great wins we've had as a Club.

"I will miss running out in the red and green with my team mates in front of my family, friends, Members and fans, but I am so blessed to have done it for so many years.

"Thanks for all the great memories, and I will be right beside the boys as they continue to strive to achieve the goals they have set for this season."

Rabbitohs Head Coach Michael Maguire paid tribute to Lowe.

"Benny is one of the hardest working players we have at our Club and he has been a major contributor to the culture within this Club today," Coach Maguire said.

"He has a wonderful young family to look after and we all understand his decision to retire due to his injuries.

"He's a fantastic team member, and he will be doing his best his push the group along for the rest of the season, despite not being on the field with them.

"His efforts will be long remembered at this Club, and we look forward to having him around the Club into the future."