FORMER Bradford Bulls player Ben Kavanagh has announced his retirement from rugby league after a 17-year playing career.

The Super League and Scotland stalwart, 36, hangs up his boots after making 398 career appearances for club and country, having played for Widnes Vikings, Wakefield Trinity (loan), Bradford, Hull KR and hometown club Halifax Panthers.

“The rugby league Rollercoaster has finally come to an end,” said Kavanagh upon announcing his retirement.

“I’ve had nearly 20 years in the game: from moving to Wigan at 15-years-old and living with a foster family, to representing Wigan, Widnes, Wakefield, Bradford, Hull KR and Halifax as well as 20 plus caps for Scotland, playing in two World Cups.

“I’ve enjoyed my last five years at the (Halifax) club, getting to play with other lads from Halifax who love playing for the badge. I had some of my best years down at The Shay, playing under Simon Grix who got the best out of me as a player.

"I got to represent my hometown club at Wembley and lift the 1895 Cup in front of my family which was and always will be a proud moment for me."