LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a gut-wrenching blow to the Melbourne Storm, Christian Welch has hung up his boots for good.
The tough-as-nails forward has been forced to call time on his rugby league career due to a pesky back injury that just won't quit.
Welch, a true warrior of the game and a key player in the Storm's 2020 Premiership win, made the heartbreaking announcement alongside Storm bigwig Justin Rodski.
With 163 Storm appearances under his belt, Welch leaves the game with a jaw-dropping 75% win rate.
Not one to shy away from the big stage, Welch also donned the maroon jersey for the Queensland Maroons, showcasing his skills in six State of Origin clashes.
While it's a tough pill to swallow for fans of the game, Welch can hold his head high knowing he gave it his all every time he stepped onto the field.