LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Chad Townsend Announces Retirement
Sydney Roosters player Chad Townsend has officially declared his retirement from professional rugby league, set to take place at the end of the 2025 NRL season.
The 34-year-old playmaker joined the Roosters this year, marking his debut as the club's player number 1236 during Round 2.
Townsend's retirement will conclude a notable 15-year career in the NRL, which includes winning a Premiership and making over 250 first-grade appearances.
To date, Townsend has played a total of 268 NRL games since starting his career with the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks in 2011 (Round 13).
Throughout his time in the league, he has represented four teams: the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks (2011-2013, 2016-2021), New Zealand Warriors (2014-2015, 2021), North Queensland Cowboys (2022-2024), and finally, the Sydney Roosters in 2025.
Among his most significant accomplishments are winning the 2016 NRL Premiership with the Sharks, co-captaining the Cowboys during the 2022-2023 seasons, and playing for both NSW City and the Prime Minister's XIII.
In announcing his retirement, Townsend took a moment to reflect on his impressive 15-year journey in the NRL.