Ireland and Lions prop Jack McGrath retires from rugby at the age of 33

Former Ireland and British and Irish Lions prop Jack McGrath has announced his retirement from professional rugby.

The 33-year-old, who began his career at Leinster, was released by Ulster at the end of last season and had been without a club as he continued his battle to recover from a persistent hip injury.

McGrath was capped 56 times by his country between 2013 and 2019 and won the Six Nations in 2014 and 2015, in addition to a Grand Slam in 2018.

He travelled with the Lions to New Zealand in 2017, making three Test appearances as a replacement.

“I have spent a long time reflecting on my career over the last number of weeks/months and realise how fortunate I have been to wear the most famous jerseys in the game,” he posted on Instagram.

“The last few years have been extremely testing for myself and my family, both mentally and physically.

“I feel I have given everything to my rugby career and I have no regrets or anything left to prove.

Wishing Jack McGrath a happy retirement - thanks for everything you did in a green jersey!