Ireland rugby star Jamie Heaslip has retired from rugby on medical advice.
The Leinster number eight has not played since being struck by a lower back injury during the warm-up of last year’s Six Nations victory over England in Dublin, a week after completing 80 minutes against Wales.
After two unsuccessful operations, the most recent in late October, the 34-year-old British and Irish Lion has been forced to retire on 95 caps.
“Time will get us all, but it’s cornered me earlier than I had hoped,” said Heaslip in a statement released on his official Twitter account.
“Every professional sportsperson always hopes to be able to leave their chosen sport on their terms but too often that’s not the case.
“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 well being.
“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 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.
“Thank 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 make my dreams come true.
“I’ve had the time of my life on and off the rugby pitch but now it’s time for the next chapter.”