Brisbane and Queensland fullback Darius Boyd has joined the growing list of veterans announcing their representative retirement, after the 30-year-old called time on his State of Origin career.
Boyd has announced the decision with immediate effect, meaning he will join recent retirees Cooper Cronk, Cameron Smith and Jonathan Thurston on the sidelines.
The Broncos star scored a try on the weekend and is still playing at Origin level, although he feels it could be best to let the Maroons' next brigade come through the ranks.
‘’My time’s done in rep footy,” Boyd told The Courier-Mail.
“I’ve had a great career. I have nothing to be disappointed about. I’m really happy with everything I’ve achieved in the rep arena.
“I don’t think I have anything more to prove. It’s time for the younger fellas coming in. They have great players, really quality guys coming through.”
Michael Morgan was named at fullback for Origin I in Billy Slater's absence, and with Slater still in a race against the clock to be fit for Game 2, a spot may have been open for Boyd, although the veteran doesn't want it.
“For me it’s best to step aside and let the young guys go,” Boyd said.
“It’s their time to shine, and do their thing and keep the dominance Queensland has had so long.”
Boyd scored 17 tries from 28 Origin appearances, while also pulling on the Kangaroos jumper 23 times, for 16 tries.
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