Veteran referee Matt Cecchin has announced his retirement from the NRL after quitting the sport in 2017.

The whistle-blower then returned in 2019 and is considered the best referee in the game despite not appearing in the representative arena for several seasons.

Cecchin has officiated hundreds of NRL games, grand finals and State of Origin blockbusters.

Meanwhile, the Sydney Roosters have lost another one with centre Josh Morris confirming he is also calling time at the end of 2021.

“I’ve thought long and hard about this decision. I’ve been enjoying my footy and love being around the team we have here at the Roosters, but I’m very comfortable that this is the right call,” Morris said.