Ireland prop Ross to retire

Leinster and Ireland prop Mike Ross will end his illustrious career at the end of the season.

Ross has earned 61 international caps since making his debut back in 2009, winning the Six Nations twice and playing in two Rugby World Cups.

The 37-year-old has also won the Heineken Cup twice, the Challenge Cup and two Pro12 titles after joining Leinster from Harlequins ahead of the 2009-10 campaign.

Ross has decided the time will be right to hang up his boots when the season comes to a close and is determined to sign off in style by winning another trophy.

He told Leinster’s official website: “Rugby has been a huge part of my life and I’ve been incredibly lucky to have been a part of some amazing teams. In particular, I’ll never forget winning the European Cup in 2011 or the Six Nations championship in 2014.

“I never dreamed having had such a late start in the professional game that I’d go on to achieve such goals, or win 61 caps for Ireland. I’m indebted to my team-mates and coaches, my friends and family.”

He added: “I’ll miss the camaraderie of the dressing room and the roar of the fans when running out in the RDS Arena or in the Aviva Stadium, but unfortunately you can’t play forever. It’s time to go in a different direction and I’m stepping out of the rugby bubble and moving into the fast-growing world of technology.

“It’s a new reality, but something I’m very excited about. I still hope to be involved in rugby in some capacity but after this season all my energy will be focused on my new employer, Wizuda, and the challenges my new career will represent.

“Going forward I’ll definitely be in the stands on the weekends shouting the lads on, but for now there’s a very bright future in front of this team and hopefully we can get our hands on the Guinness Pro12 trophy before I hang up my boots.”

Watch every game of the Lions Tour of NZ streaming live on rugbypass.com, home of the best online rugby coverage including news, highlights, previews & reviews, live scores, and more!