Joe Ansbro has been forced to retire from rugby with immediate effect after suffering a neck injury in August 2012.
The London Irish centre, 27, suffered a C1 fracture early into the second half of the Exiles pre-season friendly with Munster in Cork.
Despite extensive rehabilitation since the injury, he has been advised on medical grounds to retire from rugby with immediate effect.
Ansbro, who was capped 11 times by Scotland, made 14 appearances during his time with London Irish and scored three tries.
He said: “It is with great sadness that I announce my retirement from professional rugby. To gain international recognition with Scotland has been an immense honour; victories over South Africa and Australia stand out. Playing this great game at the highest level is a privilege and I will always look back on my career with fond memories.
London Irish Director of Rugby Brian Smith said: “This is incredibly sad news for Joe and for everyone at London Irish. He is a very intelligent and articulate young man and I have no doubt that he will be as committed to his next career as he has been to rugby. Everyone at the Club wishes Joe all the best for the future.”