Former All Blacks hooker Nathan Harris announces retirement

Former New Zealand hooker Nathan Harris has announced his retirement from professional rugby with immediate effect.

The 29-year-old's decision comes after continuous discomfort with his ankle and now is looking forward to complete his studies at the University of Waikato.

“It has been a massive year and it is time to hang up the boots,” he revealed. “After playing 10 years of footy, my ankle has had enough, and it is time to move onto something new.

“It has been a really hard decision but at the end of the day, my body and my family come first. Next year I am looking at finishing my studies at the University of Waikato, moving into post grad, and finally achieving my ultimate goal since leaving school and becoming a Physical Education teacher.”

Harris started his career with the National Provincial Championship Bay of Plenty in 2012 and went on to make his Super Rugby debut with Chiefs two years later making 58 appearances for them scoring 35 points.

He was part of the New Zealand Under 20 side that finished runners up in the Junior World Championship in 2012. The 6ft 1in hooker made his Test debut for the All Blacks in 2014 and has gone on to play 20 games with his last appearance coming in November 2018.

Chiefs head coach Clayton McMillan paid tributes to Harris and his contribution to the club over the years.

“Nathan has been an outstanding contributor for the Gallagher Chiefs, All Blacks and Bay of Plenty,” he added.

“He is recognised among coaches and his peers as one of the best scrummaging hookers in the country. He had a lot of quality years still ahead of him but unfortunately, his injuries have caught up with him.

“He has been an outstanding Chief. Even though he has battled through injuries through campaigns, he has always been the one to put the team first, whichever team that may have been. It is a true testament to his character. We wish him and his family all the best for their next chapter.”