Hohaia feels he has 'let the team down' with sudden retirement

Ben Flower punches Lance Hohaia during the Super League final. Photo / YouTube.

Lance Hohaia feels he has "let the team down" with the sudden announcement of his retirement, according to St Helens coach Keiron Cunningham.

The 32-year-old New Zealander broke the news last Wednesday that he hung up his boots because of "recurrent post-match concussion-type symptoms" arising from his concussion while playing for Saints in last October's Super League grand final.

Hohaia, who made eight appearances this season before announcing his decision to quit, has made no comment over his future other than to say he would be seeking medical advice but Cunningham has kept in touch with the Kiwi international.

"He seems okay," Cunningham said. "I spoke to him before he announced he was going to leave. He let me know what was going on.

"He's a bit disappointed that he's let the team down but he seems fine. He made his decision a long time ago I think in his head."

Hohaia, who was at five-eighth against Wigan at Old Trafford, demonstrated his versatility by starting matches at fullback, hooker and halfback this year in the absence of a host of regulars.

Cunningham admits Hohaia's sudden departure has left a big hole in his squad but the club re-signed Australian fullback Shannon McDonnell, who went straight into the team for last Friday's win over Wakefield, and the coach gave a full debut to hooker Lewis Charnock against the Wildcats.

"It's left a massive void, I won't deny that," Cunningham said. "Lance was very versatile in what he could do."