London Irish prop Geoff Cross has announced his retirement from rugby following the Exiles relegation from the Aviva Premiership.
Cross, a qualified doctor, has spent 13 seasons in rugby but will now take up a career in medicine.
After making 15 appearances during his first Exiles season in 2014/15, Scotland international Cross, 33, has not featured for the first team since a pre-season game against Harlequins in October.
Tight-head prop Cross made a good impact during his first campaign, scoring four tries in a run of five games shortly after his arrival from Edinburgh and also enjoyed a glittering Scotland career, earning 40 caps and featuring in 2011 World Cup and numerous Six Nations tournaments.
“I have enjoyed my time at London Irish,” said Cross.
“But I feel the time is now right to attention towards returning to medicine which I intend to achieve by next summer.
“London Irish is a club steeped in history and tradition and the foundations are very much in place for it to make an immediate return to the Aviva Premiership.”
Glenn Delaney, head of rugby operations at London Irish, added: “Geoff has had a fabulous playing career that has seen him play at the very highest level for Scotland.
“He has been a great professional to have at London Irish both on and off the field
“I speak on behalf of everyone connected to the club in wishing Geoff and his family all the very best for the future.”
