Aussie Waugh to retire from rugby

Waratahs captain Phil Waugh has confirmed he will retire from rugby union at the end of the year to pursue a business career.

Waugh, who made his state debut in 1999 and has played a record 124 Super Rugby games for NSW, made the announcement at Waratahs headquarters today.

While the 79-Test veteran was not part of Robbie Deans’ side last season, he remains hopeful of a call-up for the World Cup to be staged in New Zealand in September-October.

But for now the 31-year-old is focused on winning a maiden provincial title with NSW ahead of Friday’s qualifying final against the Blues at Eden Park.

Waugh will lead the Waratahs to Auckland this afternoon, with his decision certain to provide his NSW team-mates with added motivation ahead of Friday’s must-win clash.