Former France hooker Dimitri Szarzewski has announced his retirement from all rugby due to the effects of an accumulation of injuries.

The 36-year-old says he made the decision to retire with immediately effect because the physical nature of the game took a toll on his body.

‘All these years, I haven’t been saved from injuries, but now my body says stop. Rugby hurts,’ Szarzewski said in a statement.

‘My body’s suffering. I could have continued a few more months but I couldn’t take responsibility of my role as captain. I spend most of my time on the physio’s table.’

Szarzewski made his Test debut in July 2004 and would go on to earn 83 caps for Les Bleus. He won three Six Nations titles with France in 2006, 2007 and 2010 and played in the 2011 World Cup final against the All Blacks.

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