Hayman to retire at end of season

Editor

Former All Black tighthead and current Toulon captain Carl Hayman has confirmed he will retire at the end of the season.

The 35-year-old had been rumoured to be considering a return to playing in New Zealand at the end of the current campaign, but he will instead hang up his boots after five seasons in France.

During that time he has won back-to-back European titles, as well as a first Top 14 title in more than two decades for the club.

Previously Hayman had spent three seasons at Newcastle following his move from New Zealand in 2007.

Prior to his move up north, Hayman had won 45 caps for the All Blacks, helping them to a series win over the Lions in 2005.

“I’ve had an exceptional career and I don’t want to go on for a year too long,” Hayman told Var Matin.

“There is a life after rugby and I want to be able to keep playing with my kids in the garden.

“I don’t want to be stuck on the sofa because I can’t do anything else.”