Connacht Rugby have lost another player to concussion with news this week that Ben Marshall is retiring immediately.
Highly-rated, the 26-years-old Dubliner came to Connacht at the start of last season, but due to injuries made only five appearances. Having remained on the sidelines this season, he has decided to retire on medical advice.
It is a premature end to what had been a promising career for the former Leinster, Ireland U20 and Emerging Ireland player, who joins former players Craig Clarke, Dave McSharry and Nathan White on the list of concussion victims.
Marshall said it had been a difficult time on the sidelines, but he will now continue his financial studies and a new career.
“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.
“Special thanks 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 thank the Connacht head physio Garrett Coughlan and the medical team who have given me wonderful care and support over the past 11 months."
Coach Pat Lam said Marshall was unfortunate through injury during his time at Connacht Rugby.
"We always saw his professional attitude shine through on and off the pitch. He is an excellent team man who has achieved a lot in the game from a very young age and I have no doubt that he will go on to achieve great things in his business and life pursuits.”
