MELBOURNE'S Ben Holland has announced his retirement from AFL football.

Holland, 30, debuted with Richmond in 1996, where he played 125 games, before moving to Melbourne at the end of the 2003 season.

Sunday's match against his old team will be his 191st AFL games.
 
"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at both Melbourne and Richmond," Holland said on Saturday.

"I have given everything I have got to the team every time I competed. I love playing football, I love being involved in football, and I love the team camaraderie.
 
"After Sunday's game, I will look forward to the next chapter of my life."
 
Holland has joined Adem Yze, Jeff White and David Neitz as Melbourne's retirees this season.
 
Holland, from North Adelaide, was taken by Fitzroy in the 1994 AFL Draft at No.19, and the following year was traded to Richmond.

He has kicked 178 career goals.