Promising Irish centre forced to retire due to concussion

Connacht centre Dave McSharry's rugby career is over.

The 26-year-old has hung up his boots for good under doctor's instructions. McSharry met with a neurologist recently who advised retirement, which he announced through a statement on Wednesday.

"Although I am devastated that my time as a player has come to an end, I know that it is the only decision available to me after speaking to the specialist." "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as a professional rugby player with Connacht Rugby. I arrived here as a 21 year old and Galway became my home over the past five years."

https://twitter.com/SportsJOEdotie/status/715295504565972992 McSharry had been one of the provinces most promising players in his first few seasons with the club and was called into Ireland's training squad during the 2013 Six Nations. However, a slew of injuries, including four concussions, in 2015 saw his playing time severely reduced. It is understood that the concussion he suffered against the Newcastle Falcons last December essentially ended his professional rugby career after making 65 appearances for Connacht.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank IRUPA, all the supporters, volunteers, staff, players and my friends and family for their continued support over the years." "I would also like to thank all the coaches who have helped me along in my career, from my schoolboy days in Templeogue college, right through to UCD and into the professional set-up. "I leave Connacht Rugby with incredible memories that I will cherish forever and I am hugely proud to be leaving as a Pro12 champion. I wish Pat and the team huge success for the season ahead."

McSharry isn't the only player from the province who has been forced to retire for this reason. In 2014, Craig Clarke was advised to retire after sustaining multiple concussions over the space of three years. On the latest episode of the GAA Hour Hurling Show Wooly and the lads reflect on a monumental weekend of action. Listen below or subscribe here on iTunes.