Monty Retires

Legend Percy Montgomery announced his retirement from international rugby on Saturday after the victory over Australia.

He will continue to play for Western Province in the Currie Cup and for the Stormers in next year’s Super14.

He holds the record for the most caps (102) in Springbok history as well as the most points (893), most conversions (153) and most penalties (148). He has also earned two Tri-Nations winners medals as well as World Cup victory in 2007.

“We’ve come off a good win here and I just feel that it’s the right time to go. There have been many memorable games and I wouldn’t change the highs or the lows.

“But the time is right to call it a day. I want to spend some time with my family. It’s been difficult what with the doubling up on seasons for some time now, but I really want to be there for my kids.

“The decision is based on my wanting to spend time with my family and also on the new era under the ELVs.

“Not many players get to choose when they want to leave Test rugby and I think that is what makes today so special for me because I know that at Test level it is time to go.

“I have had many memorable moments in the Bok jersey and some testing ones as well, but I would never exchange one moment of either the highs or the lows.

“It has been a privilege to play for my country and to play in some of the best teams the world has seen. I also feel blessed as a player to have played against so many great players and so many different countries.

“Today is one of thank yous to those who have helped me be the Springbok I was – to every coach who helped develop my talent and to every Bok teammate who experienced those highs and lows with me. Thank you.

“Tonight is about thanking Peter, Dick and Gary for seeing value in my role in their first season as Bok coaches. Thank you for believing in me and allowing me an opportunity to earn 100 Test caps.

“I was asked why I would come back after a high of winning the World Cup in France, but for me every time I put on a Bok jersey was a high and I got to do that eight more times this year.

“Thanks also to those who supported me. There is no better place to play rugby than in South Africa and never stop believing in the Springboks because just like the Blou Bul: ‘ ’n Springbok eet nie van die vloer af nie. ‘n Springbok ken nie van verloof af nie.’

“Finally I just want to thank my mom, dad and my wife Tasmin for always believing in me.”