Canberra playmaker Jack Wighton has retired from representative football, a decision that 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, told AAP that NSW coach Brad Fittler spoke to the player on Sunday and the reason for his retirement was to "focus on club and family".
The 30-year-old has played seven Tests for Australia and 10 Origin games for NSW in multiple positions.