Rugby: McCabe confirms retirement

Pat McCabe of the Wallabies. Photo / Getty Images.

Brumbies and Wallabies outside back Pat McCabe has confirmed his retirement from rugby due to ongoing neck problems.

McCabe, 26, fractured his neck in the Wallabies' 51-20 loss to the All Blacks at Eden Park on Saturday.

The injury was the third time McCabe had suffered a serious neck injury.

"It has truly been an honour to represent the Brumbies and the Wallabies over the past five years," McCabe said in a statement on Thursday.

"While my playing career has not ended the way I would have liked, I consider myself extremely fortunate.

"Fortunate to have met and shared experiences with special players and coaches. Fortunate to have played against opposition from around the world representing my country and province. And fortunate to walk away from the game with life changing friendships and memories."

-AAP