In a surprising revelation, Tigers legend and coach Benji Marshall has shared that he might have continued his playing career until the end of 2023 if not for an unexpected intervention from renowned coach Wayne Bennett.
During an in-depth discussion with former Kiwi international Shaun Johnson, the accomplished playmaker discussed his plans with the Gold Coast Titans for the 2022 and 2023 seasons, which would have allowed him to extend his NRL career until he turned 38.
"You know what's crazy, I actually wasn't going to retire when I retired. I had literally agreed verbally to go to the Gold Coast for two more years to keep playing," Marshall expressed in the interview, which aired on Tuesday night.
"I regret it a little bit to be honest."
In 2021, Marshall played a crucial role in leading the Rabbitohs to the NRL grand final, showcasing his skills as a versatile super sub throughout the season.
As thoughts of relocating to the Gold Coast occupied his mind, Marshall disclosed that it was Bennett-who coached him at the Rabbitohs and earlier in his career at Brisbane and the Kiwi national team-who prompted him to rethink his decision.