France's 'Mr Rugby' Fabien Pelous to retire
France's most capped player Fabien Pelous calls time on his career
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Thursday, 23, Apr 2009 04:49
Fabien Pelous, France's most capped player, has announced he is to retire at the end of the season.
The Toulouse lock turned out 118 times for Les Bleus over a 12-year international career, including 42 appearances as captain. He retired from international rugby after the 2007 World Cup and has now decided to call time on his club career as well.
Pelous, 35, said he had reached the decision after "careful thought".
He said: "I know hard times are coming and that the desire of playing will not disappear right away. But it is wise to know when it is time to go. It is the right time."
Pelous began his career at Dax before a 1997 move to Toulouse where he has won two Heineken Cups. He also lifted the Five/Six Nations four times in his career.
But although he is part of the France 'A' coaching team, he has previously talked about entering politics when he hung up his boots.
Toulouse coach Guy Noves paid tribute to Pelous and vowed to make sure his team finished the season strongly as a fitting farewell.
"This is the Mr Rugby of the past 15 years who is leaving the pitch. I take the years I spent alongside Fabien as a chance, a rare privilege.
"He never cheated. We will do everything we can so that he can leave with his head up high."