Brisbane Lions forward Nakia Cockatoo has announced his retirement after 49 games across nine injury interrupted seasons with two clubs.

The 26-year-old spent the first six seasons of his AFL career with Geelong after being drafted as a top 10 pick from the Northern Territory in 2014, before arriving at The Gabba at the end of end of 2021.

Brisbane delisted the explosive forward at the end of 2022 before reselecting him in the rookie draft.

Cockatoo informed his teammates of his decision at the Club on Wednesday afternoon ahead of the Lions Club Champion Dinner.

“Nakia is one of the nicest people you could meet in football and has been a much-loved member of our Club that will be missed,” Lions general manager of football Danny Daly said.

“Being a top 10 pick highlights the potential and talent Nakia had as a footballer, but unfortunately for him injuries and his body provided challenges throughout his career.

“However, to play 49 games of AFL football, including some of those being finals, is something he should still be very proud of.

“We wish Nakia and his family all the best with their life after football and thank him for his service to the Brisbane Lions.”