Quinnell forced into retirement

Thursday, 13, Apr 2006 10:14

Craig Quinnell admits that he will have to retire after a serious neck injury sustained last month.

He was told by doctors that just one more neck injury could leave the big Welshman wheelchair-bound.

The 30-year-old former Welsh international lock was playing for the Cardiff Blues against Glasgow when he received the neck injury.

Quinnell said: "Obviously I'm really disappointed I'm never going to play again whether professionally or even a fun game.

"Hopefully I'll be able to continue to play other sports such as golf and squash, as well as lead a normal life. I can't think of a better place to have finished my career than here. I'd like to thank all the Blues faithful who have cheered me on."

Quinnell moved to the Premiership in 1996 when he went to play for Richmond, but he returned to his home country to join the Blues.

He made his Wales debut in 2002 in a defeat at the hands of France in the Six Nations and went on to gain 32 caps.

Blues boss Dai Young said Quinnell was "very influential" and would be greatly missed by the Welsh Celtic League club.