Hudson forced to retire from professional rugby

Gloucester Rugby can confirm today that second row James Hudson has retired from professional rugby with immediate effect having failed to overcome a serious knee injury.
 
The 34-year-old , who joined the club from Newcastle Falcons ahead of the 2013-14 season, injured his knee when he appeared as a replacement in Gloucester's first preseason friendly in September 2015, away at Exeter Chiefs.

"I'm obviously disappointed that I've had to hang up my boots, but I know that I gave it everything in a bid to get back on the pitch and I'd like to place on record my thanks to the Gloucester medical staff who have been terrific," commented Hudson.

"I feel proud and very lucky to have been able to play for 15 years as a professional and always knew that it would come to an end one day. I am now looking forward to starting a new chapter and am delighted that part of that will be with Gloucester Rugby."

Hudson made over 250 appearances in a career, which included representing Bath Rugby, London Irish and Newcastle Falcons as well as Gloucester in the Premiership.
 
However, having also played for England against the Barbarians and on two Churchill Cup tours, he will remain with the Cherry and Whites in the role of Performance Nutritionist.