Tuesday 27 February 2018 06:17, UK
Ireland and Leinster forward Jamie Heaslip has announced his retirement from rugby following a long-term back injury.
Heaslip has not played since suffering an injury to his lower back during the warm-up to the 13-9 win over England in the final game of last year's Six Nations.
The 34-year-old, who has won 95 caps for Ireland, underwent a second operation on his back in November in a bid to save his career.
However, Heaslip announced his decision to retire from rugby on Monday in a heartfelt statement on Twitter.
"Time will get us all but it's cornered me earlier than I hoped. Every professional sportsperson always hopes to be able [to] leave their chosen sport on their terms but too often that's not the case," Heaslip wrote.
"I have had to take on board the medical advice that I have been given and after talking to Sheena and my family I have taken the difficult decision to retire with immediate effect from playing rugby in order to ensure my future wellbeing.
"I'm very proud to finish my career as a one-club man having played amongst some of the best in the game, who are all like a family of brothers to me.
"My goal when I started my professional career 14 years ago was to leave the jerseys that I wore in a better place and I hope I have done that.
"That you to the IRFU, Leinster Rugby, all the coaches, medical staff, backroom staff, sponsors, media, supporters and most importantly my wife, family, friends and fellow players for helping me to make my dreams comes true.
"I've had the time of my life on and off the rugby pitch but not it's time for the next chapter."
Heaslip made his debut for Leinster in 2005 and went on 229 appearances for the Irish province - winning three Heineken Cups during his time in Dublin.
He also won three Six Nations titles with Ireland and was selected for the 2009 British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa as well as the following tour to Australia in 2013.
Heaslip scored 13 tries for Ireland in his 95 appearances and ends his career as the seventh most capped player for his nation.
