Ireland’s World Cup: Former Ireland captain Paul O’Connell announces retirement

The 36-year-old retired after Ireland’s World Cup quarterfinal defeat to Argentina, but had missed the last-eight clash after tearing his hamstring in the pool stage success over France.

That fall harm has refused him a club swansong with all the French giants, although retire from international rugby following the World Cup and O’Connell had always intended to trade home province Munster for Toulon.

“It is with deep regret that I have decided to retire from professional rugby following medical advice,” said O’Connell in an Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) statement.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all at Rugby Club Toulonnais for their understanding and support over the past few months.

“Since sustaining the injury at the World Cup I have been fully focused on returning to fitness and starting an exciting new chapter for both myself and my family in Toulon.

“Unfortunately this will no longer be possible.”

Ireland’s talismanic captain that was former racked up 108 caps in 13 years of Test rugby, and can go down as among his country’s finest- international stars.

The Munster lock that is gritty conquer the turf in torment on tearing his hamstring in Ireland’s 24-9 Pool D World Cup victory over France, nevertheless, reacting as the clear effect of the blow.

O’Connell was immediately ruled out of Ireland’s quarter-final showdown with Argentina, and Joe Schmidt’s side after lost out 43-20.