Castleford Tigers’ Australian winger Nick Youngquest has announced he is to retire from the game at the end of the season.

The 28-year-old, who has been establishing a career as a part-time male model, joined the Tigers from the Crusaders at the end of 2010 and has scored 23 tries in 31 appearances.

Youngquest, who also played for Gateshead and French outfit Pia as well as Sydney clubs Cronulla, St George Illawarra, Penrith and Canterbury Bulldogs, chose to break the news of his retirement on the day England captain Jamie Peacock announced he was stepping down from the international game.

“As retirements the order of the day, I’m going to retire from professional rugby at the end of the season. It’s been good while it lasted!” said Youngquest on Twitter.

“I’ve had an unreal time playing rugby, met some great people and made life-long friends. So thanks to everyone for the memories!”

Youngquest’s announcement also came on the day Castleford confirmed the signing of former New Zealand centre Jake Webster and Hull scrum-half Jamie Ellis for 2013.