Former England lock Joe Launchbury will retire on the finish of the season.
The 35-year-old was capped 70 occasions by his nation between 2012 and 2022, profitable three Six Nations titles and enjoying on the 2015 and 2019 Rugby World Cups.
Launchbury, previously of Wasps, has made 50 appearances since becoming a member of Quins from Japanese membership Toyota Verblitz in 2023 however has featured simply six occasions to this point this time period.
“It has been coming for a while and it is certainly no secret, but the time feels right to step away from rugby at the end of this season,” he advised Harlequins’ web site.
“To have worn the England shirt 70 occasions, to have given so a few years to Wasps, to have had the honour of representing Harlequins, and to expertise a season in Japan. I have been so lucky to characterize the groups I’ve.
“To my team-mates, previous and current, thanks. The friendships we’ve constructed go far past rugby. Not a day glided by the place I didn’t get pleasure from being across the folks I used to be fortunate sufficient to name teammates. You made each problem worthwhile.
The final of Launchbury’s 70 England caps got here within the 2022 Six Nations
“Rugby has given me greater than I ever dreamed of. Not only a profession, however a life stuffed with objective and friendships in addition to recollections that can stick with me perpetually.
“I have given my all to my career and my body is telling me it needs a break.
“I’d love to remain concerned within the sport ultimately, however for now I’m trying ahead to what comes subsequent, and most of all, being current to look at my kids develop up.”
