Mike Ross has announced he is to retire from rugby at the end of the season.
The prop, who played 61 times for Ireland, revealed on Tuesday morning that he will hang up his boots next month. The Cork-born star has played 151 times for Leinster since he moved there in 2009.
A product of Munster's A side, Ross moved to England in 2006, where he spent three seasons with Harlequins in the Premiership. After returning to Ireland in 2009, the 37-year-old forced his way into the Ireland team.
Despite making his debut in 2009, aged 29, Ross would enjoy a stellar international career. He played in two World Cups and won two Six Nations titles with Ireland.
At Leinster, he enjoyed a trophy-laden spell which included two Heineken Cup titles, a Challenge Cup and two PRO12 titles.
.@MikeRoss03: “I’ll miss the camaraderie of the dressing room and the roar of the fans...unfortunately you can’t play forever." #ThanksRossy
— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) April 25, 2017
"Rugby has been a huge part of my life and I've been incredibly lucky to have been a part of some amazing teams", Ross revealed, in a statement. "In particular, I'll never forget winning the European Cup in 2011 or the Six Nations championship in 2014."
"I never dreamed having had such a late start in the professional game that I'd go on to achieve such goals, or win 61 caps for Ireland. I'm indebted to my teammates and coaches, my friends and family."
The 37-year-old is to move into the technology sector in the coming months, but he said he hoped to continue his involvement "in some capacity".
Leinster head coach Leo Cullen said Ross played a "major role" in Leinster's successes since he joined the province.
"Mike has also been a great mentor to some of our younger props", Cullen added. "Always being prepared to pass on his experience to ensure their continued development."
Ross has played 16 times this season for Leinster, with ten of those appearances coming from the bench.
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