South African-born Hurricanes prop Reggie Goodes has been forced to retire from the game after a series of concussions.

The 26-year-old hasn’t played since taking a head knock during a pre-season game in February 2017. It was the third time he had been sidelined because of a concussion since 2014.

‘I would have dearly loved to continue playing rugby, but there are more important things in life than sport and I have decided to put my family first and hang up my boots,’ said Goodes, who earned 60 Super Rugby caps for the Canes.

‘Although I am pleased to say I am now feeling good, the medical advice and my history of head knocks suggests there is a risk there that’s not worth taking.’

Goodes made his Hurricanes debut in 2012 and was part of the team that won the Super Rugby tournament in 2016. At the end of that year, he played for the Barbarians against the Springboks at Wembley.

Photo: Photosport