Neck injury forces Munster favourite Paul Warwick to hang up his boots

FORMER MUNSTER AND Connacht back Paul Warwick has been forced to announce his retirement from rugby due to a neck problem.

The Australian native, who played with Worcester Warriors in the English Premiership this season, has taken the advice of a specialist in deciding to call time on his playing career.

Warwick joined Connacht in 2004, enjoying three seasons with the club, before moving to Munster at the start of the 2007/08 campaign. The versatile Brisbane native subsequently became a favourite among the southern province’s fans, thanks to his creative performances at out-half, centre and fullback.

A Heineken Cup winner’s medal and two Celtic League successes were just reward for Warwick’s efforts in the red jersey. Over four seasons with the province, the former Australian Sevens representative played 95 games, scoring no less than 461 points.

2011 saw Warwick moving to Stade Français in the Top 14, where he had two difficult seasons, before switching to Worcester last summer. The initial decision to leave Munster had come due to the Australian only being offered a one-year contract extension.

Warwick made five Premiership starts for relegated Worcester this season, but will be remembered for his classy contributions on the pitch during his time in Ireland, as well as his impact among teammates behind the scenes.

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