The Leicester Tigers prop, Dan Cole, announced his retirement from rugby at the end of the season, the club confirmed on Tuesday.
Cole has had an outstanding career of 19 years, participating in 565 matches, including 118 appearances for the England national team. This makes him the second male player with the most matches played for his country. In addition, he will play at least one more match on Saturday against the Newcastle Falcons.
The Tigers are in second place in the Premiership Rugby. The semi-finals are scheduled for June 6 and 7, and the final will take place on June 14 at the Allianz Stadium in Twickenham.
It has not been an easy decision at all. I have been hesitating, however, I think this is the best time to stop playing.
Dan Cole
Cole added that he feels it’s the right time for the club to move forward, especially with the departure of other experienced players and the arrival of a new head coach for next season. He also mentioned that the physical demands of continuing to play at his age have been a significant factor in his decision.
The player expressed that he didn’t want to be “the old guy” who clings to the game for too long.
