Aviva Premiership
Barnes forced to call it a day
ESPNscrum Staff
April 13, 2011
David Barnes has been forced to retire © Getty Images
Enlarge
Related Links
Players/Officials: David Barnes
Tournaments/Tours: Aviva Premiership
Teams: Bath Rugby | England

Bath prop David Barnes has been forced to retire due to a neck injury.

The 34-year-old England Saxons international played 266 games for the west country club after moving to the Rec in 2000 and has also served as chairman of the Rugby Players' Association since 2005.

"I was looking forward to fulfilling my playing contract with Bath till the end of next season, however after consultation with a medical specialist I have been advised that it is no longer possible for me to continue to play," he said.

"While it is extremely upsetting to be forced to end my playing career prematurely, I feel extremely fortunate to have been able to have run out at the Rec for the last 11 seasons and to have played alongside many great players in some truly memorable matches."

Bath director of rugby Sir Ian McGeechan added: "It is always sad when a player has to retire due to injury, especially one of David's calibre. He is not only a very good player on the pitch, but he adds many things to the Bath squad off the pitch, which we will miss next season."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

Live Sports

Communication error please reload the page.

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices