Worcester Warriors centre Wynand Olivier to retire at end of season

World Cup winning South Africa international Wynand Olivier has confirmed that he will retire from professional rugby at the end of the ongoing season.

Olivier, who had represented Bulls, Ricoh Black Rams and Montpellier before joining Worcester Warriors in 2015 has made 50 appearances for the Sixways outfit but a hamstring injury has restricted his availability this season.

“I have had a long career and made some great memories. have been very privileged to play the game I love for so long,” Olivier said.

“It will be undoubtedly be an emotional experience leaving the game but I’m excited about what the future holds and to follow my ambitions outside of rugby.”

The 35-year-old made his Test debut for Springboks in 2006 in Durban and has gone on to play 38 times for his country including a victorious World Cup campaign in 2007.

“I think people define success in different ways. I’m proud of what I have achieved. However, it is about looking forward and maintaining the ambition and drive that I have learnt from rugby into my transition,” he said.

“I have made a lot of friends along the way and these relationships have only made my career more enjoyable.”