Donncha O’Callaghan to retire from all forms of Rugby

Worcester Warriors lock Donncha O’Callaghan has confirmed that he will retire from all forms of rugby at the end of the season to spend more time with his family.

The 38-year-old has won 94 caps for Ireland and four caps for the British and Irish Lions having toured twice with Lions in 2005 to New Zealand and 2009 to South Africa.

“I am done,” commented the veteran. “It’s been great. I have had a great time. I love the game and I want to finish loving it. Honestly, body wise I feel great. The game is changing though and everyone is talking about it this season.

“Over the last three years, the physicality has gone through the roof.

“I’d love to be able to walk away from it and say I had a great time within it and be thankful to the game itself. I just look at my own crew. Guys like Denis Leamy is after getting a hip operation. I have four small kids, I want to be running around with them having fun. I don’t want to be stuck in goal in a five-a-side. You want to finish the game fit, healthy, and well. You want to be active.

“It’s definite right now (the decision to retire). My family need me around more. As much as I love rugby I love them more and I need to be there. That’s corny isn’t it? But that’s the way it is.”

In his illustrious career, O’Callaghan became Munster’s most capped player with 268 appearances over 17 seasons with the club.