Thursday 26 May 2016 13:22, UK
Wasps' Australian centre Ben Jacobs has retired from professional rugby.
The 34-year-old began his career at the Waratahs and also played for the Western Force and Japanese side Kyuden Voltex.
In England, he spent a season at Saracens in 2008-09 and had two spells at Wasps, where he made over 80 appearances for the Aviva Premiership club.
Announcing the decision, Wasps director of rugby Dai Young told the official club website: "Ben has been a key figure within Wasps' squad during his two stints with the club and, as a senior member of the team, he has been a great influence within this group on and off the field.
"Ben has made a big contribution to Wasps over the past few seasons as we've worked our way up the table and we wish him the very best for the future."
Jacobs plans to explore coaching opportunities in England and said: "I have had a great time at Wasps and have made many lifelong friends.
"I feel like it is my home away from home and although I am sad to leave, I feel now is the right time."
The man who brought Jacobs to Saracens, England head coach Eddie Jones, was full of praise for the contribution Jacobs has made to the teams he has represented during his 14-year career.
"Ben's a lovely guy," he said: "He's played a lot of good Super Rugby in Australia, particularly for the Waratahs, and when I took over at Saracens, he was one of the guys I brought over.
"Unfortunately, Ben had a few injuries for Saracens, but since then he's done really well for Wasps and has played superbly for them. Guys like Elliot Daly have benefited enormously from playing with him. I'm sure for the rest of his life, Ben will look back at his rugby with affection and enjoy those memories."
