Northampton Saints have confirmed that prop Ben Franks will retire from professional rugby at the end of the 2019/20 season.
The two-time World Cup winner, 35, has made 37 appearances to date in Black, Green and Gold having made the switch to Franklin’s Gardens in 2018.
Franks, Saint #1989, hangs up his boots with one of the most complete CVs in world rugby, having won two Rugby World Cups and earned just shy of 50 caps for New Zealand.
Double World Cup winner Ben Franks has announced that he will hang up his boots at the end of the season.
A legend of the game.
— Northampton Saints
(@SaintsRugby) February 24, 2020
He arrived in Northampton following a three-year spell at London Irish, and was part of the side that lifted the Premiership Rugby Cup in his first season.
“I am proud to be a Saint and very grateful to have had the opportunity to finish my playing days here in Northampton,” said Franks. “But the end of this season is the right time for me call time on my career.
“I’ve loved my journey in rugby; from playing back home in New Zealand, to representing the All Blacks alongside my brother, and then coming over here to experience the challenge of the English Premiership.
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“I’ve also really enjoyed having the chance to run out with Owen again here at Franklin’s Gardens, and I’ll of course be following the Club’s progress in the coming years as he continues to play on in Northampton.
“I could not have achieved everything I have in rugby without the support of my wife, Genna, as well as my family, friends and of course my teammates. To them all, I am incredibly thankful.”
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