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Calling Time

Ex-Wales scrum-half Mike Phillips to retire from rugby at end of season

The 34-year-old is calling it a day after the current Premiership campaign.

EX-WALES SCRUM-half Mike Phillips is to retire from professional rugby at the end of the season.

The 34-year-old, capped 94 times by his country, said he will bow out at the conclusion of Premiership side Sale Sharks’ campaign.

Mike Phillips is tackled by Conor Murray Mike Phillips in action against Ireland in 2014.

“I would like to announce my retirement as a professional rugby player at the end of this season with Sale,” Phillips wrote on Twitter.

“Thanks to the fans, teammates, club, coaches, Wales, Lions, friends & family who have supported me over the years.

I will attack the next chapters with the same passion, commitment and laughter as I did with my entire career. See you soon!”

Phillips was an integral part of two Grand Slam-winning Wales sides and appeared at four World Cups in addition to representing the British and Irish Lions in five Tests.

The Welshman, who is heavily involved in charity work with children, played club rugby in three countries, lining out for the likes of Cardiff Blues, French outfits Bayonne and Racing 92, and then Sale.

However, he was also involved in several alcohol-related incidents during his career which resulted in disciplinary action, including being sacked by Bayonne in 2013.

Wasps v Sale - Aviva Premiership - Ricoh Arena Phillips will finish his career with Sale. Paul Harding Paul Harding

Phillips joined Sale at the start of this season, although the Sharks are 10th in the Premiership and out of contention for a place in the title play-offs.

On behalf of the club and the rest of the coaches, I’d like to thank Mike for his massive contribution this season to the squad,” said Sale director of rugby Steve Diamond.

“He’s a great lad, and a true professional and we as a club have learnt a lot from him. We want to wish his all the best in his retirement.”

(C) AFP 2017

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