Kade Snowden retires from rugby league

Injury has forced Newcastle Knights prop Kade Snowden to retire from the NRL, he announced on Friday.

Snowden, 29, has battled a neck injury for most of 2016, failing to make a first-grade appearance since the opening round of the season.

"It has been a tough year not being able to contribute to the team but my body just couldn't do it anymore," Snowden said in a statement.

"A number of injuries, but primarily my neck, have forced an early retirement from the game that has been my whole life."

Snowden has represented New South Wales and Australia during his 12-year career.

He has made a total of 174 NRL appearances, representing both the Knights and Cronulla Sharks.

"I know I was a better person and player for moving away and coming back to the Knights," he added.

"[But] I was so happy I was able to play my last couple of years at the Knights.

"To have my family and friends support me every week and to represent Newcastle meant the world, even though it has been cut short."