South African World Cup-winning prop Tendai Mtawarira, affectionately known as The Beast, has announced his retirement from international rugby.
The 34-year-old, whose ball carries led to affectionate chants of ‘Beast’ in stadia around the world, was a stand-out performer as the Boks beat England 32-12 to lift the Webb Ellis trophy in Yokohama on Saturday, the last of his 117 Tests.
He won a number of scrum penalties on the loose-head side as South Africa dominated the set-piece to lay the platform for their third World Cup title.
(AP Photo/Mark Baker)
“I am grateful for the opportunities afforded to me by many top coaches at the Springboks and the Sharks, and grateful to my numerous team mates in green and gold, and black and white, over the years,” Zimbabwe-born Mtawarira said.
“But most of all, to my wife Kuziva, and our two beautiful children, Talumba and Wangu, for sacrificing so much to allow me to chase my dreams. I really appreciate it immensely.
“I’ve been blessed to have been part of teams that achieved so much success over the years, and I have many memories to cherish forever, but I can honestly say that winning the Rugby World Cup is the perfect ending and cherry on top.”
Mtawarira retires as the third most capped Bok behind former lock Victor Matfield (127 caps) and wing Bryan Habana (124).
He won his first cap in 2008 and also has the most appearances of any South African in Super Rugby with 159, all for the Durban-based Sharks.
Banjo Kelly
Roar Rookie
The Beast - what a Beauty!
Ragnar
Roar Rookie
Well played Beast! You have certainly retired at the top of your game. What a great bloke he is. Wish him well.
Charging Rhino
Roar Guru
BEAST! What a legend and overall "nice guy". He obliterated the Englishman Phil Vickery in 2009 in the B&I Lions series, then did it again to another Englishman this past Saturday, 10 years later. What a way to go out. Although we'll still see him in either a Sharks or overseas clubs jersey I reckon.
Bobwire
Guest
Another in the long line of Zimbabweans to play for the Springboks. A tough man, and a professional, out scrummed his opponent in RWC final, no doubt he would look upon this as a career highlight. Hamba Gashle Tendai.
piru
Roar Rookie
Great end to a great career all the best to the beast
FatOldHalfback
Roar Rookie
Tight Head props of the world can sleep a little better -- no Beast in their nightmares
ScrumStability
Roar Rookie
All the best mate for the rest of your journey. Congratulations on a great rugby career. You also have done very well to bow out at the top of your game.
Great career, an example of what a professional is.
Bentnuc
Roar Pro
Legend! What a way to finish obliterating the pommy scrum :happy: