Ireland prop Peter Clohessy, who wins his 50th cap against Wales on Sunday, has announced his retirement at the end of the season.
The stalwart of Irish rugby spoke of his decision at today’s press conference to announce the Ireland team for the Six Nations opener at Lansdowne Road. His last game will be against France in Paris in April, which incidentally was the same fixture where he made his Ireland debut.
"At the start I didn’t really think I’d get there," said Clohessy speaking on the brink of his 50th cap. "Although I must admit it has been a target of mine from the start of last season to get to 50."
The Limerick man has become something of a cult hero in Irish rugby for his non-compromising hard-nosed front row style which has also earned him the nickname of "The Claw".
The 35-year-old went on to explain how he slipped into rugby wilderness and almost gave up the game after being suspended for violent conduct in 1996 against France in the then Five Nations.
"I was going to jack it in but my wife persuaded me not to. She told me to go out and prove them all wrong," said Clohessy.
"My best memories are of beating England in 1993 and France for the last two seasons.
"At the end of the season I'll take a year out and spend some time with my family. I'd like to have a look at specialist coaching but I'll take the time off first."
Clohessy will also step down from Munster, for whom he made his 100th appearance earlier this season.