Champion Melbourne Storm halfback Cooper Cronk has ended months of speculation - and worry for his coach Craig Bellamy - by signing a four-year contract extension with the NRL competition leaders.
The 28-year-old had been linked to moves to Gold Coast, St George Illawarra, South Sydney and Sydney Roosters.
But he said he believed the Storm offered the biggest personal challenge.
"I said from the start the decision I make will be based on whatever is the biggest and the boldest and most challenging," said Cronk at a Melbourne media conference.
"For a lot of people ... the attraction drawing me away from what I know so well would be the answer for that.
"For me, it's about being the best version I can be and this club gives me that."
Cronk kept most at the Storm, including Bellamy, in the dark about his thoughts on his playing future.
He said he only made his final decision in the last 24 hours and had enjoyed the "gamesmanship" of negotiation.
Not so Bellamy, who thought he was going to lose the likely Test and Queensland No.7.
"I had a feeling a week ago that perhaps he mightn't be here. He doesn't give away too much and likes to keep things to himself," said Bellamy, adding he never tried to pressure Cronk.
But the coach was grateful that the process never adversely affected his halfback or the team at training or in making their unbeaten start to the season.
"I knew he'd be tempted and would look at the other challenges and opportunities that would come up for him," Bellamy said.
"The one thing he's done very well and better than I've ever seen any player do is being able to put it aside when it came to training and playing."
Cronk, who made his NRL debut for Melbourne in 2004, wouldn't reveal any financial details or incentives the Storm offered him to stay.
He believed the best was yet to come from the club and said that was a big factor in his decision.
"It is very much a confidential and private matter," said Cronk of the size of other offers.
"Yes there is money involved on negotiations for any footballer.
"But for me, this is about the biggest challenge and what makes me a better person and I think this club gives me that in bucketloads."
Cronk admitted that the club being stripped of their two premierships and three minor premierships that he was involved in winning following the salary cap scandal in 2010, was still a painful issue for him.
After this signing, a new boat was deposited to Cronk's house.
Replies
Huuuge ego-maniac! Had the misfortune of bumping into the little barstard once at melbourne casino. had this model chick all over him, Billy seemed like a much nicer guy actually. The ONLY player EVER to call a press conference just to announce hes staying at the same club, what a weapon....
Yep agree what a ego,