Injury forces Harlequins centre George Lowe into retirement

Harlequins centre George Lowe has announced his decision to retire from professional rugby with immediate effect on medical grounds.

The 27-year-old joined Quins in 2008 and was a part of the 2011/12 Aviva Premiership title winning squad. He has racked up 139 appearances for the club in which he amassed 140 points.

Lowe, who has also represented England U20 previously has been battling a series of neck and back injuries that have limited his participation in the recent seasons.

Rugby director John Kingston paid tribute to Lowe.

"George has been an absolutely fantastic servant to the club," said Kingston.

"He will be sorely missed as a player and a person and I would like to extend on behalf of Harlequins our sincere gratitude to the service given over so many years."

His performances in the 2011/12 season saw him earn a call-up to Stuart Lancaster's England squad but he failed to win a single Test cap.