Luke Watson retires from rugby

Editor

Former Springbok Luke Watson's controversial rugby career is over.

A spokesperson for the Eastern Province Rugby Union confirmed to Netwerk24 that Watson had informed them "a while ago" of his retirement from the game.

"Today (Tuesday) is a public holiday and I am with my family and not prepared to comment on the matter," Watson said.

Watson represented South Africa at U19 and U21 level and also played for the Sevens team. He made his Test debut for the Springboks in controversial fashion when then-coach Jake White was forced to select him for political reasons. Watson eventually played 10 Tests for the Springboks.

He joined English Premiership side Bath in 2009 but returned to South Africa two years in order to play for the Southern Kings in their first Super Rugby campaign.

Watson barely featured for the troubled EP Kings over the last two seasons due to consistent injury problems.