Rugby
Wales' Stoddart calls it a day
2013-01-07 16:45
Cardiff - Wales fullback Morgan Stoddart on Monday announced his retirement from rugby after failing to make a full recovery from a double leg fracture suffered in a World Cup warm-up match against England in 2011.
The 28-year-old, who also played on the wing, missed the whole of last season following the shocking injury he sustained at Twickenham but returned for his regional side, Llanelli Scarlets, in October.
However, Stoddart was still suffering from severe leg pain and, consequently, has now decided to call time on a career that saw him score five tries in eight Tests, including one on debut against South Africa in 2007.
"It is with real sadness that I have to announce my retirement from rugby and it has been a difficult few months as I come to terms with the fact that I was not going to return to full fitness," said Stoddart.
"I have been very fortunate to play for the Scarlets and Wales and have enjoyed every game in my professional career working alongside some brilliant fellow professionals.
"I worked as hard as possible in the year I was off to get back on the pitch and that can be a difficult period for any injured player mentally, as well as physically, but I was determined to get back to playing," added Stoddart, who scored 26 tries in 85 appearances for the Scarlets and also played on the wing.
"But ever since I've been back on the field I've had significant pain in the leg throughout and that has not improved.
"Following a series of medical tests and consultations, detailed scans and strength tests, I've been advised that I cannot continue."
Looking to his life away from the pitch, Stoddart said: "I'll have to adapt and it's important to give yourself time to consider things in the future after such an intense life playing rugby.
"But I have already started thinking ahead and there are many exciting opportunities for me related to my career to look at and take forward which will keep me occupied now."