Israel Dagg announces his retirement from rugby

All Blacks and Crusaders outside back Israel Dagg has confirmed he is hanging up his boots, announcing his retirement from rugby.

 
The injury-enforced announcement comes after 30-year-old Dagg’s long-term knee injury hadn’t allowed him to train and play at an elite level, so after taking medical advice he has decided to retire.

“It’s been an honour to represent the All Blacks, Crusaders and Hawke’s Bay over the years and I’m incredibly proud to have worn each of those jerseys throughout my career," said Dagg.

“While it’s bittersweet to mark the end of my playing career, I’m grateful to still be able to contribute to this Crusaders team in 2019 and help prepare some of the younger squad members to take the next step in their own careers.
 
“On a personal note, I’m looking forward to taking on some new challenges in the future, and looking forward to spending more time with my young family.”

 
The news brings the curtain down on a stellar rugby career which began in 2006 when Dagg made his debut as an 18-year-old for his Hawke’s Bay provincial side.

He ends his career having played 66 Tests for the All Blacks over eight years (2010 – 2017), 89 matches for the Crusaders (2011 – 2018), 25 games for the Highlanders (2009-2010), and 50 appearances for Hawke’s Bay Magpies (2006 – 2015).

New Zealand Rugby CEO Steve Tew said: “On behalf of all rugby fans both here and around the world, I want to thank Israel for his stellar service to New Zealand rugby.
 
“He leaves us as one of the greats of our game and the second most capped All Blacks fullback of all time. He was an excitement machine on the rugby field and fans knew that when he got the ball in his hands that anything could happen.
 
“Israel came into professional rugby at a relatively young age but, injuries aside, was able to perform at the highest level for many years and certainly wore the All Blacks jersey with real pride and honour.
 
“We’ll miss having him play, but given his infectious personality and positive attitude, I’m sure the New Zealand public will still see plenty of Israel Dagg as he enters the next phase of his life. We wish him and his family all the very best.”