Former England captain Chris Robshaw announces retirement

Former England captain Chris Robshaw has announced his retirement from professional rugby with immediate effect.

Robshaw ended his stint with Harlequins in 2020 following which he shifted to Major League Rugby club San Diego Legion for the 2021 and 2022 seasons but now has decided to quit his playing career at the age of 36.

He made his professional rugby debut with the Quins in 2005 and has racked up close to 300 appearances for them. He also led them to their first ever Premiership title in 2012.

"After 18 years of professional rugby and a career I could only have dreamt of, I am officially announcing my retirement from the great game.

"Following three dislocated shoulders in quick succession, my body has told me to blow the final whistle," he wrote.

"No words can do justice to how fortunate and privileged I am to have enjoyed a career in the sport I am most passionate about."

Robshaw also featured in 66 Tests for England and captained them between 2012 and 2015 in 43 games. His last appearance for England though came in 2018.

"I remember my mum taking me to my first mini rugby game - sparking the fire that lead me to later play for and captain Harlequins and England," reflected Robshaw.

"Playing for and captaining England has been the greatest honour of my life and there is no comparable feeling to representing and leading your country.

"It was a responsibility I approached with respect, optimism and determination. I hope in the coming years I can use my experience and knowledge gained to support other players on their journeys."