Springboks star Tendai Mtawarira announces international retirement

World Cup winning South Africa prop Tendai Mtawarira has announced retirement from international rugby with immediate effect.

The 34-year-old made his Springboks debut in 2008 and has gone on to play 117 Tests - making him the third most capped player in the country behind Victor Matfield and Bryan Habana.

Known as the 'Beast', Mtawarira was recently involved in the 2019 World Cup triumph of South Africa and was also part of the squad that clinched the Rugby Championship earlier this year and a series win against the British and Irish Lions in 2009.

His professional rugby debut started with Sharks in 2006 and was part of the 2008, 2010 and 2013 Currie Cup winning sides. He also holds the record for the most-capped Super Rugby player for South Africa.

“I’ve been privileged to play this great game and achieve many career goals over the last 12 years of playing senior rugby,” said Mtawarira.

“I’ve been blessed to have been part of teams that achieved so much success over the years, and I have many memories to cherish forever, but I can honestly say that winning the Rugby World Cup is the perfect ending and cherry on top.

“I am grateful for the opportunities afforded to me by many top coaches at the Springboks and the Sharks, and grateful to my numerous team mates in green and gold, and black and white, over the years.

“But most of all, to my wife Kuziva, and our two beautiful children, Talumba and Wangu, for sacrificing so much to allow me to chase my dreams. I really appreciate it immensely.

“I would also like to thank my parents, other family and friends for their support over the years – I could not have done this without you.”