Star flank David Pocock has announced his retirement from Vodacom Super Rugby and will now focus entirely on getting fit for the World Cup.
The 31-year-old loose forward, who is struggling with a long-term calf injury and has played only three matches for the Brumbies this season, said he would not seek another Rugby Australia contract and will instead play in Japan’s Top League next year.
He said finishing his time in Canberra injured on the sidelines had soured his Super Rugby farewell, but he was thankful for his stint with the Brumbies.
‘Personally I’m disappointed, I guess,’ Pocock said at a press conference on Tuesday.
‘Reflecting on my time in Canberra, I’m very grateful for the opportunities I have had here. Canberra’s certainly home. I’ve made so many great friends at the Brumbies and outside rugby as well. I feel like I’ve put a lot into my rugby and I got a huge amount out of it.’
The Zimbabwean-born Pocock made his Super Rugby debut for the Western Force in 2006 just weeks after turning 18, and went on collect 69 caps with the Force spanning seven years before moving to the Brumbies in 2013.
His early years with the Brumbies were derailed by injuries, but in 2015 he collected a swathe of awards after a strong season, and finishes his Super Rugby career with 112 appearances and 19 tries.
Pocock, who has already won 77 Test caps, indicated that he is focusing on getting fit in time for the World Cup later this year, but he will also be available for Wallabies selection beyond 2019, under what is known as the Giteau Law.
The ruling allows those who have played more than 60 Tests to play for Australia while contracted to clubs overseas.
Photo: Mark Nolan/Getty Images
