Former England Saxons lock James Hudson has retired from professional rugby with immediate effect.
Hudson's club Gloucester said that the 34-year-old had failed to overcome a serious knee injury.
Hudson made more than 250 club appearances during a career that featured stints with Bath, London Irish, Newcastle and Gloucester.
He underwent surgery and embarked on a lengthy rehabilitation programme after suffering the injury during a pre-season friendly 13 months ago.
Hudson has now had to admit defeat in his injury battle, but he will remain with Gloucester in the role of performance nutritionist.
"I am o bviously disappointed that I've had to hang up my boots," Hudson told Gloucester's official club website.
"But I know that I gave it everything in a bid to get back on the pitch, and I would like to place on record my thanks to the Gloucester medical staff, who have been terrific.
"I feel proud and very lucky to have been able to play for 15 years as a professional, and I always knew that it would come to an end one day.
"I am now looking forward to starting a new chapter, and I am delighted that part of that will be with Gloucester."
Source: PA
