British and Irish Lions flanker David Wallace has been forced to retire due to injury.
Flanker bows out after losing battle against injury
British and Irish Lions flanker David Wallace has been forced to retire due to injury.
The 35-year-old, who has made 203 appearances for Munster, has been struggling to full recover since damaging his knee playing for Ireland ahead of the World Cup.
And although Wallace managed to battle bravely back to make three appearances since then, he has been troubled with on-going issues.
Wallace said: "Although it's disappointing that injury is forcing me to retire now, I take great comfort that I've had an unbelievably enjoyable career and I feel very lucky to have been involved in an era that has seen Munster and Ireland enjoy so much success".
"Professional rugby has exploded in popularity and changed beyond all recognition in this country since I began and I feel honoured to have played witness to its massive improvement.
Thanks
"I'd like to thank anyone who has helped me and had faith in me during my 15 year professional career including family, team-mates, coaches, medics, friends and not least supporters.
"I will be looking to step away from rugby and explore a few different business opportunities while also looking forward to being able to spend more time with my wife Aileen and sons Andrew and Harvey."
During a distinguished career Wallace toured with the Lions in 2001 and 2009, while he was capped 72 times by Ireland - winning the Grand Slam three years ago.
With Munster he lifted the Heineken Cup twice, the domestic title three times and the Celtic Cup once. He also finished as a runner-up in the Heineken Cup on two occasions, earning a place in the ERC European Dream Team (1995-2010).
