Bags and suitcases are being packed at the Whitefield home of Salford Reds star Ray Cashmere. The former Cowboys prop will be riding off into the sunset at the end of the season.

Ray’s size 15 feet are pointed in the direction of his native Australia and the man mountain prop will leave a sizeable hole in the Reds front row after three great years as pack enforcer.

The fans’ favourite goes home harbouring a lasting debt to Ian Millward, his former North Queensland coach, who spent long hours on the training paddock improving and fine-tuning Ray’s defensive skills.

For this, Ray will always be eternally grateful. The man dubbed Basil helped Ray brush up on this key aspect of his game and moulded him into a top prop.

Ideally, Cashmere would have relished another spell under Millward’s stewardship – he was a contender for the recently filled Reds coaching job – but this won’t happen now.

Reds football director Steve Simms says everything about Cashmere is totally professional and says the power prop has been a fantastic acquisition.

Few would disagree with Simm’s assessment and, though hindsight is a wonderful thing, it’s fair to say had Cashmere signed for a bigger Super League club his impact on the English game would have been even greater.

He’s a player who prides himself on his fitness. He possesses a wonderful off-load and, invariably, five defenders are needed to halt this human juggernaut. Some of the greats of the game, like Adrian Morley and Jamie Peacock, talk of Cashmere’s honesty, bravery and commitment.

It was seen recently at Warrington when he copped a thunderous, bone-jarring shot in the opening minutes from Wolves forward Ben Westwood. Cashmere dusted himself down and went on to dominate.

The great Andy Gregory often tells the story of a former Salford team-mate, who is now a high-profile figure within the game, being reluctant to go out for the second half against Castleford when the Yorkshire heavies were baying for blood following a bruising first half.

Devoted

Gregory’s mate simply didn’t have the stomach for the fight – had Cashmere been in his boots he would have been the first out, a player who has never taken a backward step.

Ironically, it was at Castleford where Cashmere sustained a serious injury while putting his body on the line.

His damaged rib could easily have pierced a vital organ but he would not throw in the towel and battled on bravely.

Off the field, he’s a devoted family man and very much a gentle giant. Salford’s administrative staff talk of Ray’s friendliness and willingness at all times to promote the club, assist sponsors and mingle with fans.

He’s a throw-back to the good, old days when players talked openly to the media, shared a laugh and a beer and discussed matters beyond rugby’s touchlines.

Cashmere himself frowns upon the surly self-reluctance of many modern-day players to go the extra mile, being guarded when an opportunity to be expressive and helpful presents itself.

Over the years, Reds have made some very indifferent overseas signings but Simms struck gold with Cashmere following a recommendation from Millward.

The fans will miss Cashmere.  Earlier this season, his eldest boy, Charlie, created a barrel of laughs by coming to games armed with a mouth organ. Dad’s trademark drives – notably the line busts against champions Wigan – were complemented by young Charlie’s musical accompaniment.

Cashmere is a modest pro who never ever blows his own trumpet. Yet, those who sing his praises are plentiful.

He will be leaving with his head held high and this is one former Cowboy who looks set to say farewell to The Willows with all guns blazing.

He will be a tough act to follow and certainly leaves very big boots to fill.

∂ Reds are expected to be unchanged for tonight’s home game with Harlequins.

Elsewhere in Super League, Warrington coach Tony Smith delays final selection ahead of the trip to Castleford.

Wigan, who host Leeds in the televised game, have asked centre George Carmont to reconsider retirement plans. Saints host Hull.

What do you think? Have your say.

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