Overview
- The NRL granted a one‑off dispensation after Arrow’s May retirement for medical reasons so he could be named on the team list and take two ceremonial kick‑offs to reach 100 South Sydney appearances.
- On Friday night at Allianz Stadium Arrow led the Rabbitohs out, was substituted shortly after the opening kick‑off, and received a standing ovation with tributes from both clubs and past players.
- Coach Wayne Bennett personally helped arrange the milestone and assisted Arrow in the sheds, a gesture credited with making the final appearances possible.
- Fundraising and public support have grown during the campaign with limited‑edition shirts selling out and organised drives raising large sums for the family and FightMND.
- Broad international coverage followed the farewell and a Sky Sport New Zealand scheduling error that cut to a betting ad during the walk‑out drew complaints and prompted an on‑air apology.