DUBLIN: Munster’s former New Zealand wing Doug Howlett has retired from professional rugby, the Irish province announced yesterday.
The 34-year-old, the All Blacks’ record try scorer, has been forced to quit because of a shoulder injury suffered earlier this season.
Munster’s squad captain, Howlett underwent surgery in a bid to regain full fitness but has now retired on medical advice.
The former Auckland wing scored a record 49 tries for the All Blacks in 62 Tests from 2000 to 2007.
He joined Munster in early 2008, helping them win the European Cup that season, and went on to make more than 100 appearances, scoring 35 tries.
Munster added that Howlett had indicated he will remain in Cork, where he lives with his wife and three children, for the immediate future.AFP
