The NRL season has been placed under suspension amid the coronavirus pandemic, leaving all players, coaches and club officials in a world of uncertainty as no clear return date for rugby remains.

With the exponential spread of COVID-19, the game remains in limbo, with the season potentially facing the chance it may not resurface if the virus can't be contained in time.

Many stars and veterans of the game entered this year with retirement on their mind, and now with the time frame of 2020 up in the air, many players may have to consider that they have already played their last match.

An abrupt ending to a career is tough to celebrate, as many face the prospect of not being able to thank teammates and fans for taking part in their long, illustrious careers.

We take a look into who may have played their final match in 2020, as we hope the season returns to give them one last crack at a premiership.

Back

1. Cameron Smith (Melbourne Storm)

The games record holder has managed to keep retirement talks under wraps, for now. With no clear decision having been made just yet whether Smith would be playing on past 2020, Storm fans will be hopeful their beloved clubman will return to AAMI Park if and when the NRL returns.

Smith will need time to discuss his final decision with his family and Melbourne, as his contract ends at the conclusion of this year. The 413-game legend is one to entertain the fans, as we hope he elects to play-on for a 20th season in the NRL if this year is put to bed early.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 28: Cameron Smith of the Storm looks on before the NRL Preliminary Final match between the Sydney Roosters and the Melbourne Storm at the Sydney Cricket Ground on September 28, 2019 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Jason McCawley/Getty Images)
Back