Leeds Rhinos legend Ryan Hall ready to play on after changing stance
Ryan Hall has declared himself ready to extend his career into 2027 – and the Leeds Rhinos legend may play on even longer.
The 38-year-old – a self-confessed imparnumerophobiac who avoids odd numbers – had previously intimated his desire to finish on a round 20 seasons as a professional.
However, there are no thoughts about retirement as he prepares to bring up two decades of service to rugby league.
"I've changed that a little bit," said Hall, who passed the 500-game milestone last March. "Now I can't finish on a prime number.
"Twenty is nice and round. Twenty-one is divisible by three and seven. Twenty-two is divisible by two and 11.
"Twenty-three is a sticky one. I can't finish there so it's either going to be 22 or 24. We'll see where we get to.
"I'm at that point of my career now where I really want the club to do what is in the best interests of the club. If they want me to give another year and my body agrees with that, I'm happy to go around again.
"I just know that you're a long time retired. I enjoy what I do and want to get the most out of it."
Hall, who won six Super League titles during his first stint at Headingley, scored 13 tries in 27 games in his return season.
Winter is the time when motivation is truly tested but the former England winger has found fresh purpose during his latest pre-season.
"It's actually got easier," he said.
"Now I'm getting towards the end, I'm trying to make the most of everything. I've flipped it on its head and turned a negative into a positive.
"I don't have many left. I'm not going to say this is my last one because it might not be my last one.
"People keep asking me if I'm done but I haven't had that feeling yet. I'm not looking for that either. If it does happen this year, it happens this year – but hopefully not.
"It will be a mutual decision with the club. Whichever is best for the club."