Connacht lock Ben Marshall has been forced to retire from professional rugby prematurely following a concussion injury.
The 26 year old only joined the province at the start of last season, but was limited to just five appearances that term.
Marshall is a graduate of the Leinster Rugby Academy and had made 10 appearances for the Ireland under-20 side.
He confirmed that he will continue his financial studies as he begins his post rugby career path.
Announcing the decision, Marshall told the Connacht Rugby website that, "Unfortunately, my time as a player has come to an end earlier than I would have wished. It has been a difficult time not being able to play since the injury but having had some time away from the game, I can appreciate how fortunate I’ve also been in my career.
"...an excellent team man who has achieved a lot in the game from a very young age..." - Lam
Best wishes to @benmarshall00 for the future! pic.twitter.com/nwm7Db7AI2— Connacht Rugby (@connachtrugby) January 31, 2017
"Special thanks have to be extended to my teammates and friends, from schoolboy through to professional level. We have shared many highlights that I will carry with me for years to come, and it is the quiet camaraderie of the dressing room that I will miss the most.
"I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the Connacht head physio Garrett Coughlan and the medical team who have given me wonderful care and support over the past eleven months.
"I am looking forward to continuing in my financial studies and the new career path that is ahead of me, but I will always be appreciative of the lessons that Willie (Ruane) and Pat (Lam) taught me during my time at Connacht Rugby."
Marshall was born in Dublin and attended St Andrew’s College.
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