Bill Harrigan retires
Report from: Steven Williams
29/10/03

Australian National Rugby League and international referee Bill Harrigan has announced his retirement.

Regarded as the highest ranking referee in Australia, Harrigan is a veteran of 393 first grade games, 21 State of Origins, 10 grand finals, and 22 Test matches.

"This has been a difficult decision," Harrigan said.

"I had always said that after the grand final I would consider all options.

"The NRL has been supportive and certainly made it clear that they were happy for me to continue.

"I've been enormously proud to be part of this game and honoured to have achieve the things I have."

Bill Harrigan has also ruled himself out of refereeing any matches in the upcoming Test series.