Spencer Hargrave is to quit York Wasps after suffering his second major injury blow of the season

Just two weeks after returning from a broken thumb, the 22-year-old sustained severe bruising to the same right hand during yesterday's 22-8 Silk Cut Challenge Cup defeat by Villeneuve Leopards.

It could mean another lengthy lay-off for Hargrave who has decided he can no longer afford to continue with the Wasps.

Only those 17 players who play each week get paid, and this latest injury means his landscape gardening business will also suffer.

To add insult to injury, Hargrave had his £2,000 van stolen last night, complete with all his gardening tools.

"I've had enough," said back row forward Hargrave, who informed coach Lee Crooks of his decision after yesterday's game.

"Rugby league in general is going down the tube in the NFP. I think in a year's time there will be no money at all in the NFP unless they get a major sponorship."

Hargrave will not be looking for another club and will instead concentrate on his gardening business.

He has recently gone into partnership with Paul Butterfield who has also played his last game for the Wasps.

Winger Butterfield is returning to Castleford as his loan spell with York has now come to an end.

Hargrave admitted he was frustrated with the latest injury - and with the Wasps' season so far.

Hargrave claimed he was surprised at the quality of the Villeneuve side as they fully justified their place in the Cup with a committed performance.

The 22-year-old has previously played against French sides on club tours and admitted: "I was very surprised how good they were. French sides normally give in under pressure and tend to be a bit soft but they weren't.

"They'd do well in our league. I think they'd be a top eight side over here."

Updated: 13:02 Monday, February 12, 2001