Six times rugby stars retired but came back

He isn't the first big name to change his mind. RUCK looks back on notable un-retirements:

Matfield initially retired in 2011, but returned to rugby in 2014 and made his way back into contention and represented the Springboks at the Rugby World Cup in 2015. He then played for Northampton Saints during the 2015/16 Premiership season before hanging up his boots for good.

The former England fly-half came out of retirement at the end of 2015 to join Premiership side Newcastle on a three-month contract. The 35-year-old, who started his professional rugby career with Leicester in 1998, initially cancelled a move to London Irish to hang up his boots, but was lured back and guided the Falcons to safety at the Exiles expense.

The former Scarlets wing announced his retirement in May 2016 following London Irish's relegation from the Aviva Premiership. Howver, not long after he signed a three-month deal with Premiership and European Cup holders Sarries at the start of the 2016/17 season to add depth to their squad

Rugby World Cup winner Jason Robinson came out of retirement in July 2010 after a 3-year absence to play for National League Two side Fylde, helping them to promotion in his one season at the clib.

The Welsh hooker came out of retirement after signing a short-term contract with struggling Bristol in October 2016. Shervington joined the club until December with Ross McMillan having been ruled out for six months with a knee injury.

Wales legend Shane Williams made a return to Welsh rugby in 2017, coming out of retirement to play for his beloved Amman United. The former Wales and British Lions star stunned spectators as he took the field for his home town side in the National League 3 West B match against Burry Port. He then played for them in a final at the Millenium Stadium.