Former Wales back-row Josh Turnbull has decided to hang up his boots with immediate effect, as the 36-year-old retires from his rugby playing career. Turnbull ends his playing days with 334 top flight appearances, following a decade with Cardiff Rugby, and seven years at the Scarlets.
Turnbull racked up 13 international appearances for Wales, since his debut against Scotland in the 2011 Guinness Six Nations. The back-row came off the bench in the second half, and steered Wales towards a 24-6 win in the Principality Stadium. The back-row shared his retirement plans on social media, and in an emotive message with his Cardiff club.
“It’s been a difficult decision to call time on my career, which has gone in the blink of an eye, but I am comfortable it is the right one for myself and my family.
“Reaching 200 appearances for Cardiff has been a huge motivator for me, and I was honoured to do that a few weeks ago at the Arms Park with so many friends and family in attendance.
“Rugby has given me so much – I have traveled the world, made incredible friends, and have so many great memories from my time both at Cardiff and the Scarlets.
“I am enormously grateful to everyone who has played a part in my journey, whether teachers, coaches, backroom staff, supporters, and of course my family.”
Turnbull will remain within the sport outside of his playing capacity, and has already secured a position amongst the Cardiff Academy set-up. The former back-row will oversee the young talent breaking through in the Welsh capital, and he is delighted to remain amongst the camaraderie of the blue and black.
“With close to 350 games of professional experience under my belt, I am now looking forward to the next chapter in my career, and I am very grateful to Cardiff for giving me an opportunity to continue coaching within the academy set-up.
“There is so much talent coming through in this region; you only need to look at the lads who have come through this year to see that, and I’m excited to pass on my experience.”