Rugby League Legend Ben Kavanagh Calls Time on Illustrious 17-Year Career
Ben Kavanagh, a former stalwart in the Super League and a standout for the Scotland national team, has announced his retirement from rugby league after a remarkable 17-year playing career.
The 36-year-old prop hangs up his boots after amassing an impressive 398 career appearances for various clubs, including Widnes Vikings, Wakefield Trinity, Bradford Bulls, Hull KR, and his hometown club, Halifax Panthers. Kavanagh’s journey in the sport began with the Wigan Warriors’ youth system, before he went on to make 167 appearances for Widnes between 2008 and 2015.
Kavanagh’s international career was equally impressive, as he earned 21 caps for Scotland, representing his Scottish heritage in the 2013 and 2017 Rugby League World Cups. One of the highlights of his career came in 2023, when he helped the Halifax Panthers win the 1895 Cup at Wembley.
“The rugby league Rollercoaster has finally come to an end,” Kavanagh said upon announcing his retirement. “I’ve had nearly 20 years in the game, and I’m grateful for the experiences I’ve had, from moving to Wigan at 15 to playing for various clubs and representing Scotland.”
Kavanagh expressed his fondness for his time with the Halifax Panthers, where he spent the last five years of his career, praising the club’s supporters and the guidance of head coach Simon Grix. The Halifax-born player also cherished the opportunity to represent his hometown club at Wembley and lift the 1895 Cup in front of his family, a moment he described as a “proud” one.
As Kavanagh moves on to the next chapter of his career, the rugby league community will undoubtedly remember him as a true icon of the sport, having left an indelible mark on the game through his dedication, skill, and unwavering commitment to his clubs and country.
🔗 Source
