Jack Ziebell to retire at end of AFL season

North Melbourne Kangaroos veteran Jack Ziebell will call time on his playing career at the end of the 2023 AFL season.

The former club captain informed teammates of his decision on Friday morning, ending weeks of speculation about his future.

“On one hand it’s always a tough decision to give up the thing you love the most, but on the other I think my body will thank me for it,” he said.

“From the time I’ve walked into the place I’ve felt right at home and I’ve made some amazing lifelong friendships and connections.

“I’ve given everything I can to this footy club, but I think the time is right to pass the baton to other to take us forward.”

The 32-year-old has fallen out of favour with interim coach Brett Ratten, starting as North’s substitute in each of their past three games.

Sitting 17th on the ladder, the Kangaroos have promoted youth this season with the likes of Harry Sheezel, George Wardlaw and Eddie Ford becoming regular starters.

“I truly believe we have the building blocks to eventually go far as a club,” Ziebell said.

“I think back to those finals wins in 2014 and ’15 and how amazing the feeling around the club was and I know those times aren’t too far away.”

Ziebell was taken with pick nine in the 2008 AFL draft and made his debut for the Roos the following year, making an instant impact before a broken leg curtailed his Rising Star chances.

Injuries have plagued the Murray Bushrangers product throughout his career, yet he has amassed 276 games while playing key roles in every third of the field.

With this announcement, he will fall short of reaching 300 games in the AFL.

Ziebell has been listed on the extended bench for North Melbourne’s clash with West Coast this Sunday afternoon.

The Kangaroos head west as $1.68 favourites with AFL bookmakers as they search for their first win since round two.

The Eagles, sitting dead last with only one win for the season, are $2.20 outsiders at home.

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