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prop star

Mike Ross, cornerstone of Ireland and Leinster, to retire from rugby at 37

The tighthead is a two-time winner of the Six Nations, Heineken Cup and Pro12.

LEINSTER AND IRELAND prop Mike Ross will retire from rugby at the age of 37 this summer.

The Corkman returned to Ireland after a stint with Harlequins in 2009 and went on to win two Heineken Cups, two Pro12 titles and a Challenge Cup during his 151 Leinster appearances.

Ross was central to Joe Schmidt’s success with Ireland too, winning back-to-back Six Nations titles and starting every major Test under the Kiwi until Tadhg Furlong began filling the number three jersey last summer.

“Rugby has been a huge part of my life and I’ve been incredibly lucky to have been a part of some amazing teams,” Ross said in a statement released by his province today.

“In particular, I’ll never forget winning the European Cup in 2011 or the Six Nations championship in 2014.

“I never dreamed having had such a late start in the professional game that I’d go on to achieve such goals, or win 61 caps for Ireland. I’m indebted to my teammates and coaches, my friends and family.

“My parents, Frank and Patricia, have been a constant backing and influence throughout my career, driving me to countless training sessions when I was young in Fermoy RFC and supporting me from the sideline through all kinds of weather playing with UCC and Cork Con!”

‘It’s unbelievably proud for me and my family’ – Furlong the Lion

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