Samoa star Chanel Harris-Tavita is set to play in the last game of his career on Saturday in the biggest game possible – a Rugby League World Cup Final against Australia.
However, despite this being his last game, he is only 23.
This is because he announced earlier this year that he was taking an indefinite leave from the game.
The former New Zealand Warriors halfback has opened up on this bold decision speaking to Fox League.
He explained that a horror injury played a key role in his decision.
“For the past couple of years I just haven’t felt that love for the game, I’ve woken up on many training days and asked myself – is this really what I want to do,” Harris-Tavita said.
“It was hard for me to make this decision because you can get a lot of money in this game and you have a short career, so that was one of the toughest parts.
“But after I’d ruptured my testicle, I spent a bit of time by myself contemplating my next move and (whether to) sign my next contract, and the decision I made was the best for me moving forward.
“I thought I had two options: re-sign with the Warriors or sign with a different club, but the more time I spent with myself that third option became a lot clearer and I backed myself.
“I don’t regret it at all. I’m still young, I back myself to keep my standards high in whatever I’m going to do next and I’m excited for it.”
He may return one day and he is certainly a player Super League clubs should keep an eye on especially based on his performances.
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