South Sydney Rabbitohs forward announces medical retirement
South Sydney forward Jai Arrow has been diagnosed with a neurological condition.
The Rabbitohs confirmed the devastating news on Wednesday, announcing the 30-year-old had been forced into medical retirement, effective immediately.
Souths chief executive Blake Solly confirmed Arrow’s diagnosis at a press conference with Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett at the club’s Heffron Park headquarters.
The former Queensland State of Origin representative had not featured for Souths this season due to a serious shoulder injury.
“After extensive medical testing and consultations regarding ongoing symptoms, I’ve recently received a diagnosis relating to a nerve and neurological condition,” South Sydney chief executive Blake Solly said on Wednesday on behalf of Arrow.
“Further tests, specialist reviews and medical processes are still ongoing, and my doctors are continuing to assess my condition.
“Over recent months, my symptoms have affected different parts of my every day life. On medical advice, I’m not currently medically cleared to train or play at the required level, and I’ll be stepping away from those duties while I focus fully on my health treatment and rehabilitation.”
Noted for his unyielding defence and work ethic, Arrow played 178 NRL games for Brisbane, Gold Coast and Souths between 2016 and 2025, lining up in the 2021 grand final for the Rabbitohs.
He also appeared in three State of Origin series victories for the Maroons, playing 12 times between 2018 and 2023.
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Chris Barrett is a senior sports reporter for The Sydney Morning Herald. He is a former South-East Asia correspondent for the Herald and The Age.Connect via X or email.
