Langer finally leaves league

Australian legend Allan Langer has decided to hang up his boots for the second time.

The former Brisbane Broncos scrum-half retired from playing back in 1999 before returning to action with a two-year stint for Warrington in Super League.

After answering an emergency call to represent his beloved Queensland in the 2001 State of Origin series, the 36-year-old then had one final stint with the Broncos in Australia’s National Rugby League.

Brisbane director of coaching Wayne Bennett told www.broncos.com.au: “‘Alf ‘ loved the game, he loved playing the game and he loved the wonderful camaraderie that comes with playing a team sport. And he loved his fans as much as they idolised him.

“But fortunately for us, and for Alf, he will not be lost to the game, or to the Broncos. His exact role has not been finalised as yet, but he will be involved with us in some hands-on capacity.”

“Alf defied all his critics with his comeback in 2002 – as he has always done throughout this career.

“Many questioned his judgement in coming back to play in the NRL after a two-year absence, but week in, week out, he was among our best players.

“Playing again in 2002 also gave Alf the opportunity to erase the memories of his retirement in 1999. That was not the way he wanted to bow out, nor how the Broncos wanted him to leave.

“The form he showed in 2002 – for the Broncos and for Queensland – enabled Alf the opportunity to retire as the champion that he will always be remembered.”

Langer was a member of the inaugural Broncos team in 1988 and made 288 first grade appearances for the club.

He was crowned player of the year on five occasions (1998, 1993, 1994, 1995 and 1996) and captained the Broncos to their premiership victories in 1992, 1993, 1997 and 1998.

Langer made 34 State of Origin appearances for Queensland – a record for either state – and played 22 Tests for Australia.

He was not available for comment, as Bennett explained: “Everyone who knows Alf realises just how much he loathes doing interviews. That is one aspect of his 15 seasons at the top that never changed.

“I would ask that the media respect his wishes and allow him to ride off in to the sunset, more than likely having a beer and a bet at the Golden Beach Tavern up there in