Vodacom Bulls prop Morné Mellett has announced his retirement from rugby with immediate effect.

The 26-year-old suffered vertebral artery dissection in July, ruling him out for the rest of the year. However, recent medical advice suggested he calls it a day.

'It's sad to end my career like this, but I have no regrets. I had a good career with an unbelievable group of guys and was part of the best union in the world since I left school. We have achieved so much together and although I would have wanted to go on and play Test rugby in the future, my health and family remains most important. I would like to take this opportunity to specifically thank my wife, Claudine, for her unconditional love and support throughout my career and especially now, as well as my brother Leon,' said Mellett.

Mellett represented the Bulls in 37 Vodacom Super Rugby games and 10 Currie Cup matches. He also played for Tuks in the Varsity Cup and the Junior Springboks at the 2009 World Championship.

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