Western Province and Springbok hooker Tiaan Liebenberg has called time on his rugby career.

The 32-year-old has been plagued with back injuries in recent seasons and decided to retire and join the family business back in Bloemfontein.

Liebenberg admits it was difficult watching on from the stands at the weekend as Province claimed the Currie Cup title in dramatic fashion at Newlands.

'It's wonderful for my friends, but I'm sad I could not be involved,' Liebenberg told Die Burger.

Liebenberg was capped five times for the Springboks in 2012, while Bismarck du Plessis was ruled out with injury.

While Liebenberg admits his disappointment at not having experienced a World Cup, he has no regrets and took time to thank those who have played a part in his career.

'I am very grateful for the roles that so many people played in my career: Allister Coetzee, Matt Proudfoot, Robbie Fleck, Steph du Toit, Greg Hechter, Rassie Erasmus, André Markgraaff, Johan van Wyk, Jacques Nienaber, Gert Smal and Rob Wagner.

'I worked with the some of the best players in the world; guys like Jean de Villiers, Schalk Burger, Bryan Habana and Eben Etzebeth,' he said.

Photo: Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix