CJ Stander to retire at the end of the season

The Ireland and Lions capped back row is calling time on his rugby career at the end of the season after reaching significant milestones in the respective green and red jerseys.

Stander made his 50th appearance for Ireland against Scotland at the weekend in the Six Nations, while he reached 150 caps for Munster when lining out against Leinster at the end of January.

"All professional sports people are told “you will know when the time is right to hang up your boots”, said Stander.

"It’s a sentiment one cannot fully comprehend until that day arrives. For me, that time has come, and I hereby publicly announce my retirement from all forms of rugby. I will be available to represent Munster until 27 June 2021 when my contract expires, and for International duty, until the end of the mid-year Test window.

"During the lockdown, I did a stocktake of what matters most to me in life. My faith, family and this incredible game I have played since I was six years old easily topped the list. However, I came to the realisation that my commitment to rugby has started to take an unfair toll on my family, who both in Limerick and South Africa have made considerable sacrifices for more than 25 years to allow me to live my dream.

"I am not saddened by my decision. I’ve had a full and utterly enjoyable rugby career, and I can now look back on a journey that offered me rewards, memories and surprises beyond anything I could have scripted for myself. I wouldn’t change a thing. The 150 matches I played for Munster were some of the most precious and formative experiences of my life. My blood will remain Munster Red long after I have said my goodbyes to the people of Limerick..."