Rugby, Australian Football: Pongia retires

Wigan forward Quentin Pongia has announced his retirement. The former New Zealand international has not played since he was revealed to be suffering from blood disease hepatitis B last month.

The 33-year-old said: "I have been thinking for the past two weeks about the game in general in connection with my recent problem with hepatitis B.

"Although I desperately want to play again, I am aware of the mass publicity surrounding myself and my health."


Wigan were forced to deny claims that they had covered up Pongia's illness when news that he had been playing with the condition was revealed. Pongia tested positive earlier in the year and played in the club's first 14 fixtures of the season - including the Powergen Challenge Cup final - in the knowledge of the Rugby Football League after receiving treatment.

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