Rob Horne forced to retire on medical grounds

Australia international Rob Horne has announced his retirement from professional rugby following an arm injury that he sustained during his stint with English Premiership club Northampton Saints.

Horne suffered a concussion and an arm early in the game against Leicester Tigers on 14th April when he collided with Graham Kitchener and was subsequently forced off the field.

The 28-year-old underwent tests following the game which revealed a serious nerve damage to his right arm and eventually decided to quit the game after consultation with specialists.

Horne made his professional rugby debut with Waratahs in 2008 and his switch to Northampton Saints came in 2017. He has also been the leading try-scorer for Northampton Saints this season with eight tries.

Northampton Saints interim coach Alan Dickens expressed disappointment on the news and paid tribute to Horne.

"This is absolutely tragic news and has been devastating for every member of the squad and staff here," said Dickens.

"All our thoughts are of course with Rob and his family at this time.

"Rob is not only a world-class rugby player, but he's an exceptional man. He is a hugely respected and popular member of the dressing room and this will be an enormous loss to Saints - both from a rugby and a personal perspective.

"Even though he had only been here for one season, I am sure he was destined to become a club legend and, like everyone, I am deeply saddened that his career has been prematurely ended in this way."

Horne has also played 34 Tests for Australia since his debut in 2010 and his last appearance for the Wallabies came during June last year against Italy.