Mike Phillips to retire from rugby at the end of the season

Former Wales scrum-half Mike Phillips has announced he will retire from professional rugby at the end of this season.

The 34-year-old quit international rugby as Wales' most capped scrum-half in 2015 and he currently plays for Sale Sharks in the Aviva Premiership.

He has enjoyed a superb career, featuring in 94 Tests for Wales and five for the Lions, having started out at Llanelli in 2001 before moving on to Cardiff Blues, the Ospreys, Bayonne and Racing 92.

Phillips was a key member of a Wales side who won three Six Nations titles, including two Grand Slams, and went to three World Cups with his country.

His five Lions Test appearances comprised all three matches of a hard-fought series defeat in South Africa in 2009, and two appearances during the 2-1 win over Australia in 2013.

He wrote on his Twitter feed: "I would like to announce my retirement as a professional rugby player at the end of this season with Sale Sharks.

"Thanks to the fans, teammates, clubs, coaches, friends and family who have supported me over the years.

"I will attack the next chapters with the same passion, commitment and laughter as I did during my entire career. See you soon!"

Sale's director of rugby Steve Diamond, said: "On behalf of the club and the rest of the coaches, I'd like to thank Mike for his massive contribution this season to the squad.

"He's a great lad, and a true professional, and we as a club have learnt a lot from him. We want to wish him all the best in his retirement."

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