Former Tonga international Maama Molitika announces retirement

Former Tonga back-row Maama Molitika has announced retirement from professional rugby with immediate effect.

Molitika played 21 Tests for Tonga between 1996 and 2007 and scored a solitary try in it. He was also part of the side's World Cup campaign in 2007.

"My professional career has spanned over 21 years and I am lucky to have experienced all the things I have, from playing for my country and being selected for the Barbarians through to each and every club," he said.

His professional rugby career started with Bridgend in 2001 and also featured for Celtic Warriors, Harlequins, IBM Big Blue and Cardiff Blues. He racked up 112 appearances for the Welsh regional side before moving to Ampthill in 2013.

Ampthill head coach Paul Turner paid tribute to Molitika and his contribution to the game.

"You will remain as one of the key figures in our great climb up the leagues into the Championship. Both your on-field performances and your off-field manner have been outstanding," he said.