Aaron Shingler to retire at the end of the season

Aaron Shingler has announced he is to retire from rugby at the end of the season, bringing to an end an illustrious 15-year career with the Scarlets.

‘Shings’ made his debut for the club in 2009 and has gone on to play 226 matches.

An athletic, ball-handing back-rower and an outstanding line-out forward, he was player of the match in the Guinness PRO12 final against Munster in Dublin in 2017.

Having made his Test debut against Scotland 11 years ago, Shingler has won 27 caps for Wales and was part of the squad that reached the semi-finals of the Rugby World Cup in 2019.

Now 35, he has played a key role in the Scarlets reaching the Challenge Cup semi-finals this season.

Shingler said: “It has been an extremely tough decision to make, an emotional few weeks for myself and family. I would have loved to keep going in the Scarlets jersey, but the body is telling me now is the right time to call it a day.

“It’s been an absolute honour to represent this great club for the last 15 years. When I started out playing for my village club Hendy I never dreamt I would have played more than 200 games for the Scarlets and also represented my country on the biggest stage.

“There’s been some tough times, some difficult injuries to overcome, but I have loved every minute and I feel immensely proud to have played as many games and for as long as I have.

“To be part of a side that lifted the PRO12 trophy in 2017 was a special feeling as was that European run when we beat Toulon and La Rochelle at Parc y Scarlets. Those are nights I will never forget.

“I’d like to thank all my team-mates, coaches and staff who have helped me along the way; the fans for all the support they have given me and a huge thank you to my wife Katie for being so supportive through it all.

“It’s not over yet and I can’t wait to get stuck into training next week ahead of the Challenge Cup semi-final and hopefully there will be another final to finish off.”

Scarlets Head Coach Dwayne Peel paid tribute to Shingler’s contribution, saying: “Shings has been an immense contributor to the Scarlets. A player who has always given his all to the cause. A great character, Shings has been awesome to work with.  I'm sure all the squad will want to give him the send-off he deserves over the next few weeks.”

Scarlets Executive Chairman Simon Muderack added: “Aaron has been an incredible Scarlet, a player you knew would leave everything on the pitch every time he wore the jersey. He is a player who sets high standards and demands the best from those around him. As a club we thank him for everything he has given to the Scarlets and wish him and his family well for the future.”