Pocock, 32, has represented the Wallabies 83 times after making his Australian debut in 2008 He has appeared in three Rugby World Cups and played 112 Super Rugby matches between Brumbies and Western Strength
The open game flanker had withdrawn from the rugby test at the end of the 2019 Rugby World Cup to focus on playing with the Panasonic Wild Knights in Japan
But on Friday he took to Instagram to confirm he will not be returning to Japanese competitions as he thanked his family and former teammates for helping him throughout his career
« Thank you all for your support over the years! As a child growing up in Gweru, Zimbabwe, my dream was to play rugby and win a Rugby World Cup
« I am so grateful to have all the opportunities I have had! I want to thank my family for their love and support and the sacrifices they have made for me over the years Thank you
« Rugby has given me so many opportunities From my early days in the Western Force to my years at ACT Brumbies and Panasonic Wild Knights I am so grateful to the community each of these clubs have provided to me and the skills that I was able to develop
« It was a huge privilege to represent Australia As a migrant, I was always so aware of how it reflected something of the best of the Australian spirit, bringing together so many cultures, and I tried not to take this for granted
« I would also like to thank all the coaches, medical staff and administrators who made my career possible
David Pocock
World news – UA – Pocock announces retirement from professional rugby
