Long serving Wheelaroos captain Brad Grove has expressed his gratitude to the sport for giving him purpose after a spinal injury as he announced the end of a 13-year international career.

A respected leader, fierce competitor and proud ambassador for Wheelchair Rugby League, Grove has announced his representative retirement ahead of Rugby League World Cup 2026.

Grove broke his back at the age of 19 after falling out of a ute on the property of friend Jason Attard.

Because of the inclusivity of Wheelchair Rugby League, the pair took up the sport together in 2010 and both have represented Australia.

“Representing Australia has been one of the greatest honours of my life,” Grove said. “Across 13 years with the Wheelaroos, I have had the privilege of representing my country in 21 international games.

“I have also had the honour of being part of the leadership group throughout that time, including captaining Australia on 10 occasions and leading the team during the 2022 Rugby League World Cup campaign.

"That is something I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

"Before acquiring my spinal cord injury in 2008, representing Australia was something I never truly imagined would be possible.

"After my accident, it became a goal that gave me direction, purpose and motivation.

"I am grateful every day that Wheelchair Rugby League gave me the opportunity to achieve that goal.”

Photo: Brad Grove with ARLC Commissioner Wayne Pearce at the launch of the Wheelchair World Cup in Wollongong. @NRL Photos

Wheelaroos coach Brett Clark said Grove had played a pivotal role in the growth and success of the Australian team, helping elevate the profile of Wheelchair Rugby League while inspiring team-mates, opponents and fans through his commitment, professionalism and passion for the game.

“Brad has been an outstanding leader for the Wheelaroos and someone who has always led by example,” Clark said.

"His professionalism, work ethic and commitment to the team have set the standard for those around him, and his influence extends well beyond what he has achieved on the court.

"He has played a significant role in shaping the culture of this team and helping develop the next generation of Wheelaroos players. His contribution to Australian Wheelchair Rugby League will be felt for many years to come."

Wheelchair Rugby League Australia Chair Darren Gocher said Grove had left a lasting legacy on the Australian Wheelchair program and the broader Wheelchair Rugby League community.

“Brad’s impact on Wheelchair Rugby League extends far beyond his achievements in the green and gold jersey,” Gocher said.

“Throughout his career he has been a passionate advocate for the sport, a respected leader and a role model for players across the country.

“On behalf of Wheelchair Rugby League Australia, I thank Brad for his extraordinary contribution to the Wheelaroos program, congratulate him on a remarkable international career, and wish him and his family every success in the next chapter."

While Grove’s international playing career comes to a close, his involvement in Wheelchair Rugby League is far from over.

Committed to staying connected to the sport, Grove will continue to be involved at the grassroots level, including representing New South Wales at the upcoming LCA NRL Wheelchair Championships.

The Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup 2026 will be played at WIN Entertainment Centre in Wollongong from October 30, with the final on November 13.

The Wheelaroos, who are ranked No.3 on the IRL World Rankings, open their RLWC2026 campaign against New Zealand on October 31 before meeting Scotland on November 3 and No.2 ranked France on November 6.

World champions England are in the other pool, with Ireland, USA and Wales.

Rugby League World Cup 2026 returns to Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea. Where nations clash, heroes rise, and legends are forged. 3 World Cups. 26 Teams. The World’s Best. Tickets are now on sale from $19. Don’t miss the pinnacle of global Rugby League