Magners League
Aironi's Krause forced to quit
ESPNscrum Staff
March 30, 2011
Aironi flanker Gareth Krause, Aironi v Connacht, Magners League, Stadio Luigi Zaffanella, Viadana, Italy, March 26, 2011
Gareth Krause has been forced to retire © Getty Images
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Players/Officials: Gareth Krause
Tournaments/Tours: Magners League
Teams: Aironi | Italy

Aironi flanker Gareth Krause will retire at the end of the season amid confusion over the use of overseas players by Italian teams.

Krause, a try-scorer in Aironi's maiden Magners League win over Connacht last weekend, pointed the finger at the Federazione Italiana Rugby (FIR) when announcing his retirement, accusing the governing body of 'indecision' on the matter.

The 29-year-old moved to Italy in 2007 following spells with the Griquas and Cheetahs in South Africa, playing for Venice, Viadana and eventually Aironi.

"I spoke with director of rugby Franco Tonni and all the Aironi staff and we all have the will to continue together," Krause said. "The indecision of the Italian Federation about the rules on the use of foreign players brings me to take this decision, that I think to be the best one for me in this moment."

Aironi refused to rule out the possibility of calling on Krause again should there be a change in policy. "In Viadana Gareth confirmed to be a great player and a great guy," Tonni said. "Probably he is one of the best foreign players in Italy in the last five years.

"The door will stay open for Gareth, if rules change or if Aironi need help during the season, he could be back in Viadana. Meanwhile, we just can thank him for his behaviour on and off the pitch."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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