Leinster hooker James Tracy announces retirement

Leinster hooker James Tracy has announced retirement from professional rugby with immediate effect on medical grounds.

The 31-year-old's decision follows after he failed to make sufficient recovery from a neck injury that he sustained in April during Leinster's Champions Cup game against Connacht.

A product of Leinster Academy, Tracy has racked up 141 appearances for the Irish province since joining them in 2012. During his stellar career with Leinster, he enjoyed four Pro14 titles and also an European triumph in 2018 which saw them complete a double.

He also has been capped six times for Ireland that came during 2016 and 2017.

"Today is a day of reflection and gratitude," he told in a statement released.

"Playing for Joe, Leo and Stu, Leinster Rugby, the 12 counties it represents and my country, it has been a tremendous honour.

"I have learnt so much from each coach and can’t thank them enough for believing in me. During my ten seasons as a Leinster player, I’ve pursued success and became obsessed with winning, while being lucky enough to prepare and train with the highest calibre of players and backroom staff. It has been an honour to represent my Leinster family and all of the supporters.

"I say this with a heavy heart: I am retiring from rugby as result of injury. I cherished every moment of my career, and it has been such a blessing to play the game for as long as I have.

"I look forward to next season, but this time with the sole focus of being a great husband to Ashley and father to my children Bay and Riley."

Leinster head coach Leo Cullen wished Tracy good luck on his future endeavours.

"It is always a sad day when a player has to retire early due to injury, so we were all gutted to hear the news that James is being forced to hang up his boots.

"We would all like to wish James, Ashley, and their young family every success in the next phase of their lives and we hope to see them all at a Leinster game at the RDS, Aviva or somewhere further afield in the future.

"We cherish the fact that we were able to share in some great experiences together that will live long in the memory."