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Sydney - Wallaby lock Dan Vickerman on Tuesday announced his retirement from all forms of the game after being sidelined with injury for much of the year.
The Cape Town-born 33-year-old appeared 63 times for Australia, making his debut against France in 2002 after switching allegiance from South Africa, who he represented at the under-19 level.
He spent almost three years out of international rugby when studying in England but returned to Australia last year and forced his way back into the Wallabies squad, adding eight more caps to his tally.
His last Test was against New Zealand in the 2011 World Cup semi-finals before a stress fracture in his right tibia cut his career short.
"As a player, Dan is an uncompromising competitor who sets high standards for himself, and demands the same of those around him," said Australia coach Robbie Deans.
"He commands enormous respect, from team-mates and opponents alike, which says a lot about the man.
"While I know he wants to take time out now to digest what he does next, hopefully he won't be entirely lost to the game."
Vickerman played 33 games for the Brumbies and 53 times for the Waratahs.
The Cape Town-born 33-year-old appeared 63 times for Australia, making his debut against France in 2002 after switching allegiance from South Africa, who he represented at the under-19 level.
He spent almost three years out of international rugby when studying in England but returned to Australia last year and forced his way back into the Wallabies squad, adding eight more caps to his tally.
His last Test was against New Zealand in the 2011 World Cup semi-finals before a stress fracture in his right tibia cut his career short.
"As a player, Dan is an uncompromising competitor who sets high standards for himself, and demands the same of those around him," said Australia coach Robbie Deans.
"He commands enormous respect, from team-mates and opponents alike, which says a lot about the man.
"While I know he wants to take time out now to digest what he does next, hopefully he won't be entirely lost to the game."
Vickerman played 33 games for the Brumbies and 53 times for the Waratahs.
