Bath prop Nathan Catt announces retirement

Bath Rugby prop Nathan Catt has confirmed his retirement from professional rugby with immediate effect due to long-term injury.

Catt had been with Bath Rugby since his professional rugby debut in 2008 and has racked up 170 games for the club including 123 Premiership appearances.

The 32-year-old played for U19 World Championships in 2007 and also enjoyed a Under 20 Six Nations Grand Slam with England in 2008 - the same year he also helped the side reach the final of the Junior World Championship.

Catt was called up by England coach Eddie Jones in the training squad in 2018 but did not make any international appearance.

“I have been a part of this club for a very long time now and it has been a huge part of my life. The city is phenomenal, the supporters, the club, the players of past and present, it has all been a fantastic journey," he told the official website of the club.

"I can’t thank Bath Rugby enough for giving me this opportunity to experience so many great memories.

“It has been an extremely tough decision to make. Whilst I have great pride when I look back on my career, I do sit here and think of what could have come – but that’s sport and injuries are part and parcel of the game we all love.

“My time has come before I’d have liked to hang up my boots, but I’m very proud of what I’ve achieved, the friends I’ve made and the memories I will cherish.

"To the supporters, I just want to say a huge thank you for backing me and following me on my journey, you have been nothing short of amazing.”