Blow for Connacht as Clarke retires

CONNACHT have been dealt a major blow with the news that Craig Clarke has been forced to retire due to a series of concussion injuries.

The New Zealand born lock has suffered a number of concussions over an extended period of time which has contributed to his decision. The 30-year-old former Waikato Chiefs captain is acting on the medical advice of a number of specialists both from within Irish rugby and elsewhere.

Craig joined Connacht at the start of the 2013/14 season on a three year deal, but he only made 15 appearances for the province, starting in the second row on every occasion which included five Heineken Cup games.

His last outing for the province came against Heineken Cup finalists Saracens at Allianz Park in January. A head knock sustained in that game ruled him out of any further action while medical experts carefully monitored his symptoms over the last few months.

Based on the medical advice presented to him, Clarke made the decision to end his playing career. “While it is of course extremely disappointing the way my career has come to an unexpected end I am, at the same time, so thankful for the opportunities afforded to me through my involvement in the professional game,” said Clarke.

“Of course I understand that health takes priority over sport every time, but I still can’t escape the disappointment that I couldn’t contribute to Connacht Rugby as I would have liked and envisaged before my arrival.

Full report in this week’s City Tribune