Joynt wants to focus on playing in 2004, a decision he believes will be beneficial to himself and the club.

"Chris has been the greatest captain in the club's history," said Saints coach Ian Millward. "He has a tremendous work ethic and has been inspirational to others."

Millward is expected to announce a replacement in the near future, with Paul Sculthorpe among the favourites.

Joynt has led the Saints through their most successful era, a time that was capped by victory over Brisbane in the 2001 World Club Challenge.

He has also led Saints to Challenge Cup glory three times and lifted the Super League trophy four times.

"I've had a great run as captain of the Saints and achieved a lot within the game in that time," said Joynt, who took over the captaincy from Bobbie Goulding in 1997.

"However, I'm coming into the final year of my contract now and I feel I need to concentrate on my own game to get the most out of that year and continue to give my best efforts to the Saints."