Ally Hogg to retire from professional rugby

Ally Hogg has announced he will retire from professional rugby at the end of the current season after a career which has included 48 Scotland caps and 175 appearances for Newcastle Falcons.

The 35-year-old scored the dramatic last-minute winner less than a week ago as the Falcons ended their 20-year wait for an away win at Leicester Tigers, and the back-row forward hopes to bow out on a high after propelling the club into their first ever Premiership semi-final.

 “It’s always a sad time when you have to end one career and look on to the next one, but I’ve had a good run," said Hogg.

“I’m 35 now which is a decent age for a back-rower, and there have been many highs and lows along the way. Getting to do your hobby for a job is something you can’t put a price on, and I’ve had a fantastic time. I’m pleased with how things have gone but I feel it’s time now to try something different.”

Beginning his professional career in his native Scotland, Hogg added: “I’ve stuck with just the two clubs, going eight years with Edinburgh and eight years with Newcastle, and I’m glad I did it that way.

 “I had a great time up in Edinburgh but I always wanted to try the English Premiership, and it has been everything I thought it would be.

 “Things didn’t go so well at the start with Newcastle but it’s culminating with a place in the Premiership semi-finals, and the progression we’ve seen across all the competitions this season makes it the obvious time to bow out on a high. Now it’s on to the next chapter.”