Glasgow Warriors
Glasgow Warriors scrum-half Mike Blair calls time on playing career
ESPN Staff
April 21, 2016
© Jeff Holmes/Getty Images

Glasgow Warriors scrum-half Mike Blair has retired from playing with immediate effect, and will take up a coaching role with the club next season.

Blair, who turned 35 on Wednesday, is Scotland's most-capped scrum-half having made 85 Test appearances, and also toured South Africa with the British and Irish Lions in 2009.

He joined Glasgow last summer on a two-year deal, having previously played for Edinburgh, Brive and Newcastle. 

The Warriors and Scottish Rugby will retain Blair's experience as the half-back takes up an assistant coach role for the 2016-17 season.

"It was always my intention to move into a coaching role and although there was an opportunity to play on next year, I believe now is the right time for me to make that change," Blair, currently sidelined with concussion, told the Warriors' website.

"I had originally planned to retire at the end of last season, but I'm glad Gregor [Townsend] persuaded me to play on at Glasgow. I've really enjoyed the season and it's a brilliant environment to be part of.

"With only a few games left this season, I have unfortunately run out of time to be able to regain my fitness before the end of this campaign."

He added: "I'll definitely miss the camaraderie on the pitch and in the changing room, but it's time to move on and a new challenge awaits."

© ESPN Staff

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