Hogg, 30, announces shock retirement

Stuart Hogg has stunned the rugby world by announcing his intention to retire after this year’s Rugby World Cup.

Hogg made his Scotland debut against Wales in 2012 at the age of 19, and scored just eight minutes into his first start against France a fortnight later.

He has gone on to score 27 tries for his country, adding a further 36 points off his boot, and reached 100 test appearances as Scotland hosted Ireland in the recently-held 2023 Six Nations.

“I don’t feel my body can achieve the standards that I set myself for much longer,” Hogg revealed.

“I’ve always wanted to finish at the top end of the game. After the tournament, a new career beckons and I will attack it in the same manner as I play the game.”

As well as his superb international career that has left him as one of Scotland’s all-time greats, Hogg has also been on three Lions tours (and picked up two caps), played in the Commonwealth Games for his nation at sevens, and had a decorated club career.

He won the Pro12 – now the United Rugby Championship – with Glasgow Warriors in 2014/15, before achieving the Premiership and European double with Exeter Chiefs five seasons later.

In between those team successes, he was named Six Nations Player of the Tournament for consecutive years in 2016 and 2017, and also married his wife Gillian, who gave birth to their two children during that time.

“I feel privileged to have represented my country on 100 occasions, play on three British & Irish Lions tours and represent some amazing clubs,” he added. “I couldn’t have asked for any more.”

“Rugby has allowed me to meet some incredible characters, make lifelong friends, travel the world and be part of some unbelievable experiences that I will cherish forever.

“Knowing what lies ahead, I have a real hunger to play the best, most enjoyable rugby of my career, finishing the season strongly with Exeter Chiefs before attacking the opportunity we, as a nation, have in France.”

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