Bath second row Danny Grewcock has announced he will retire at the end of the season after a 15-year career.
The 38-year-old World Cup winner will take up a role as a mentor to younger players at the West Country club.
Grewcock has made 25 appearances for Bath this season and will probably bow out in their final game at the Rec at home to Newcastle.
“I have been incredibly lucky to play for such a long time at such a great club,” said Grewcock, who has made 226 appearances for Bath since joining from Saracens in 2001.
“I have enjoyed every minute of it, and have been very fortunate to have been given the opportunity to stay involved throughout.”
Grewcock played 74 times for England, making his debut against Argentina in 1997 and featuring in every game of the Grand Slam winning RBS 6 Nations campaign of 2003.
However he was forced home from the victorious World Cup squad later that year with a broken hand after starting the last group game against Uruguay.
Grewcock also started four tests for the British and Irish Lions, including all three games on the 2001 tour to Australia.
“Danny is one of the most respected players in the game today, and will remain so even after his retirement,” said Ian McGeechan, who will be hoping new signings Dave Attwood and Ryan Caldwell can fill the void left by Grewcock’s retirement next season.
“He has reached the highest level a player can, and should be very proud of his lengthy career.”
