North Queensland Toyota Cowboys prop Matt Scott today announced he will retire from rugby league at the end of the 2019 NRL season.

Undoubtedly one of the greatest players in Cowboys club history, Scott has played his entire career in North Queensland, appearing in 263 games across 16 seasons since debuting as an 18-year-old in 2004.

Scott sits behind only Johnathan Thurston (294) and Matthew Bowen (270) in all-time appearances for the Cowboys and has the opportunity to surpass Bowen by season’s end.

The 33-year-old was a cornerstone of an unrivalled period of success for the Cowboys. Scott was instrumental in the club qualifying for seven consecutive finals series between 2011 and 2017 and captained the side, alongside Thurston, to its historic maiden premiership in 2015.

One of just nine Cowboys life members, he was named the club’s Player of the Year and Players’ Player in both 2010 and 2013.

Scott also appeared 22 times for both Australia and Queensland and was crowned Dally M Prop of the Year in 2011 and Dally M Captain of the Year in 2015.

“I am still extremely passionate about this club and the game of rugby league, but 16 years of NRL has taken its toll on my body and it’s time to stop,” Scott said.

“Thank you to my family and friends as well as Cowboys staff, players, members, partners and fans for your support. You have all played a part in making my rugby league career a life changing and unbelievable experience.

“Finally thank you to the North Queensland region and Cowboys for letting me represent you on the rugby league field. I have loved every minute of it.”

Cowboys Director of Football Peter Parr described Scott as one of the most influential figures in the history of the North Queensland Cowboys.

“In my opinion Matt Scott ranks as the number one forward ever to don a Cowboys jersey,” Parr said.

“There is absolutely no doubt that at the peak of his powers he was unrivalled at the best front rower in the world.

“Matt was a major contributor to the most successful era of this club’s history. Not many people can say they were one of the most influential people in the best era of their club.

“He’s had an amazing career, one he and his family should be extremely proud of and a career the people of North Queensland should be thankful they were able to witness.”