Lack of chances prompts Gleeson to quit

A LACK of involvement with the national side is one of the key reasons behind Keith Gleeson’s decision to retire from professional rugby at the end of the season, according to Leinster coach Michael Cheika.

The 32-year old openside flanker informed Cheika last week of his decision to quit the game and return to Australia with his wife Fiona where he intends to work in the family financial planning business.

Though born in Dublin, Gleeson’s family emigrated to Australia when he was seven. He returned to Ireland in 2001 to join Leinster having represented the New South Wales Waratahs along with Australia at U19 and U21 levels.