Keith Earls has confirmed his retirement from rugby with immediate effect, ending a stellar career with both Munster and Ireland.
The 36-year-old calls time on his 16-year professional career following the Rugby World Cup campaign, during which Earls won his 101st international cap.
Earls made his Ireland debut against Canada in 2008 at Thomond Park, needing just two minutes to get on the scoresheet.
The Limerick man went on to score 36 international tries, leaving him second only behind Brian O'Driscoll in Ireland's all-time try-scoring chart. Earls also scored 64 tries in 202 appearances for Munster.
During a glittering career, the winger played in four World Cups and started all of Ireland’s games during the 2018 Grand Slam-winning campaign.
Commenting on his retirement, Earls said "the game of rugby has given me so much and I feel privileged to have represented my home province Munster and Ireland over the course of my career.”
Ireland head coach Andy Farrell has led the tributes to the Munster man.
“Keith Earls is a true legend of Irish rugby and it has been an enormous privilege to work with him over the last seven years.
“A gifted and committed outside back, Keith’s influence transcends his on-field achievements, of which there were many, both for Munster and Ireland.”
