Golden Lions centre Alwyn Hollenbach announced his retirement from rugby with immediate effect because of injury.

The 30-year-old has been fighting to overcome a recurring shoulder injury over the last couple of years, but suffered a set-back in his recovery process against the Brumbies during the 2014 Vodacom Super Rugby season. The damaged done during that match worsened the injury significantly.

And after sustaining other blow to the same shoulder against the Pumas in this year's Currie Cup, Hollenbach was forced into early retirement.

'It' not a decision I had any control over and I still had plans to play in France for two years. But one can’t plan these things. I was blessed with a long rugby career with lots of highs, like the four Currie Cup finals that I played in, and won. But the last one with the Lions is the most memorable and definitely a highlight in my career,' said Hollenbach. 

Coach Johan Ackermann said he was saddened by the news, but thank Hollenbach for the contribution he has made to Lions rugby.

'It is sad to hear of Alwyn. He was a leader on the field who showed great character and a true team man. I want to thank him for his support of me the last two and a half years as head coach and that he stayed with the Lions during the tough times. I wish him well for his endeavors and know he will make a success of it,' Ackermann said.

Hollenbach joined the Lions in 2009 and went on to play in 24 Super Rugby games, 37 Currie Cup games and 19 Vodacom Cup matches.

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