Withers forced to quit game

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The 31-year-old Australian, who joined the Warriors from Bradford Bulls over the winter, underwent keyhole surgery after sustaining the injury against Leeds Rhinos in April.

He hoped to return to action against Wakefield Wildcats this weekend after missing 10 matches but broke down in training on Tuesday and has been forced to quit on medical grounds.

"It's heartbreaking to have to end in this way. I now need another operation and it involves fracturing the knee to overcome the problem," said Withers.

"It would be a year before I would be right again and even then it would involve great care. I hope to have the operation this week and I would like to thank the Wigan club and especially the medical team who have worked so hard to help me.

"I am just so sorry that their efforts have been unrewarded. Wigan is a great club and I'm sure they have a bright future. I'm so sorry not to be part of it."