KANE’S NO LONGER ABLE

THREE-TIME premiership Tiger Kane Lambert says he has no choice but to walk away from the game because of a hip injury.

The 135-gamer announced his retirement on Monday, effective immediately, after he said that at some stages this season he was unable to tie his shoes or cut his toenails due to his osteoarthritis.

“It’s been a long time coming to be fair. I approached this year a little bit uncertain as to whether or not I’ll play again,” Lambert said. “It’s probably more closure today to be able to get it out in the open and be a little bit more truthful about the condition of my body and let the group move on.”

Lambert had a key role in Richmond’s three recent premierships. The 30-yearold said he considered retiring before the season but decided to push through after discussions with coach Damien Hardwick.

“I remember in preseason trying to train and watching the boys go about their business and thinking, ‘I don’t know if I can do that any more’,” he said. “But I made a commitment with ‘Dimma’ that I was up for the fight and up for the challenge.”

After “leaving no stone unturned” when seeking help for his hip, Lambert knew the time was right to retire as he began to see how his injury was affecting those around him.

“You stop and think about what your life looks like and the toll it takes on your lifestyle, it affects your family and friends as well. I’m not the best version of myself,” he said.

Lambert said he was committed to doing all he can off the field to help the Tigers go deep into finals.