The NRL yesterday gained some new fans for their tough policing of the game and high shots this season.

29-year-old Australian captain Boyd Cordner announced his retirement due to multiple concussions robbing him of his confidence to properly compete in the NRL.

Cordner hasn't played since getting knocked out in November last year and although he was declared physically fit he said deep down he knew he wasn't 100% recovered.

He follows Roosters teammate Jake Friend who also retired mid-season because of concussion.

Former New Zealand league player Richie Barnett told Mike Hosking retirements like this highlight a need to educate younger players.

“We always sort of wait until you reach the top echelon that you start to look at the policies and procedures, but I think it really starts when you're young."

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