Canberra playmaker Jack Wighton has retired from representative football in what NSW advisor Greg Alexander has described as "a blow" ahead of this year's State of Origin series.
Alexander, who has communicated with Wighton via text, said NSW coach Brad Fittler spoke on Sunday to the 30-year-old, who said he was stepping down to "focus on club and family".
Wighton has played seven Tests for Australia and 10 Origin games for NSW in multiple positions.
"He has been a big part of the NSW side for the last four years so it is a blow. Jack is a great Origin player," Alexander said.