Cronulla veteran centre Colin Best will retire at the end of the season following a 15-year rugby league career.

The 33-year-old, who made his debut in the 1998 NRL season, will hang up his boots after more than 250 games for four clubs.

Best told his teammates of the decision on Monday morning and said it was a relief to get the announcement out of the way.

“It was a difficult decision but it’s one I’m glad is out of the way,” Best said.

“I feel like a weight has been lifted since I made the decision to retire late last week.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time at the Sharks, and all the clubs I’ve played for, but it is time to move on to the next phase of my life.”

After debuting for the Sharks as a 19-year-old, Best moved to the UK in 2003 where he represented Hull for two seasons.

Upon his return to Australia he played for St George-Illawarra, Canberra and South Sydney before returning to the Sharks at the beginning of 2011.