The Waratahs’ highest-ever capped player and Australia’s second-most capped Test prop Benn Robinson has announced his retirement after sustaining an eye injury against the Brumbies in Round 8 of Super Rugby.
Affectionately known as ‘Fat Cat’, the 31-year-old has been a stalwart for Australian rugby over his long and eventful career, joining the Waratahs squad in 2004 and going on to represent the franchise on 148 occasions.
Robinson is Wallaby number 814 hailing from the Sydney suburb of Glenorie. He played his first rugby at the Beecroft Rugby Club and at The King’s School, where he was involved in their 1st XV.
Robinson scored nine tries in his Super Rugby career, and three for the Wallabies including this one against France in 2010:
Robinson’s eye injury caused blood cells to appear in the anterior chamber of the eye; a condition called microscopic hyphema.
He underwent surgery to relieve pressure within the eye and to fix a tear to the retina. He is expected to regain full sight but was advised to end his rugby career at the risk of further damaging his eye.
Waratahs captain Dave Dennis spoke on behalf of the club, saying:
“As a playing group we are all disappointed for Benn, having to end his career as a result of his eye injury,” Dennis said.
“Benn has been the cornerstone of our scrum for over a decade and has been a loyal servant in the Waratahs jersey.
“More importantly Benn has been a great team man who has added immensely to the history of our club. All players, past and present, have enjoyed having his likeable personality among our team.
“On behalf of the playing group I would like to thank Benn for his contribution to the team and wish him well in his life after rugby.”
Robinson is just the third Wallaby prop to reach 50 Test matches after Al Baxter and Ewen McKenzie. He was named Australia’s favourite player in 2009 and was runner-up for the John Eales Medal.
Wallabies coach Michael Cheika paid tribute to Robinson, who he coached to a Super Rugby title in 2014.
“Every player who has the honour of playing for the Wallabies has a responsibility to leave their own special mark on the jersey for the next generation to shape and build on, which Benn has certainly done.
“He should be incredibly proud of what he achieved in his career, and excited about what lies ahead.”
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