Western Force flyhalf Peter Grant has been forced to retire because of a series of head injuries.
Grant, who notched five Tests with the Springboks, has suffered a number of concussions throughout his career.
The 34-year-old was keen to play on with the Force in the revamped Global Rapid Rugby, but specialists advised him it was best to retire.
“Initially it was shock and then disappointment and uncertainty because this is all I know, and I was really getting geared up for another season,” Grant said.
“You go through the phases and there is a lot of emotion about that.”