Ireland's Leamy to retire

DUBLIN (AFP) –

Ireland’s Denis Leamy (left) evades Italy players during the 6 Nations Rugby match in Dublin, 2008. Leamy became the third Munster player this season to announce his early retirement.

Ireland international Denis Leamy on Tuesday became the third Munster player this season to announce his early retirement.

The 30-year-old has been suffering from a hip problem and played in just four of Munster’s opening games in the European Cup following his return from the World Cup.

The backrower had signed a two-year contract extension in February but joins Jerry Flannery and David Wallace in calling an early end to his career.

“I find it hard to put into words how much it has meant to me to play for Munster and Ireland,” said Leamy.

“It was a dream come true and I was very lucky to play with some of the greatest players ever to wear the jerseys and feel blessed that I was part of winning teams.

“I’ve had a great career, wish it had gone on a little longer but I’d like to thank all the coaches, players, medical staff and management who have helped me over the past decade.”

Leamy made the first of his 144 Munster appearances in September 2001 and went on to represent the province in both the 2006 and 2008 European Cup finals while he also had an illustrious international career for Ireland.

Capped 57 times, Leamy was a member of the 2009 Grand Slam-winning side, was twice a Triple Crown and played in two World Cups.