The Auckland Nines are just over two weeks away, with NRL clubs set to finalise their squads within the next week or so. Over the past few years, one highlight of the tournament has been the appearance of retired players.

Some of the tournamentโ€™s most memorable moments in its brief history have come from retired players, with Brad Fitlerโ€™s intercept try and Matt Kingโ€™s extra-time tournament winner at the peak. As retired players become more popular at the Nines, which former player could possibly make an appearance for yourย club at the tournament?

10. North Queensland Cowboys โ€“ Brent Tate

TOWNSVILLE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 08: Brent Tate of the Cowboys looks on during the round one NRL match between the North Queensland Cowboys and the Canberra Raiders at 1300SMILES Stadium on March 8, 2014 in Townsville, Australia. (Photo by Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images)

When you come back from as many injuries as Brent Tate has, you earn respect. Tate hasnโ€™t played since Game Two of the 2014 State Of Origin Series, a game that ended with another ACL tear, but thereโ€™s no doubt that he could still play. Playing fifty rep matches, split between the Kangaroos, Maroons and NRL All Stars, a player of Tateโ€™s calibre would be a handy pick up for the Cowboys.

The confirmed inclusion of Jonathan Thurston means Tate wonโ€™t have to worry about leading the team, he just needs to perform. And he always does.

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