Retiring Springbok prop Tendai Mtawarira has spoken about his plans for life after rugby.

The 34-year-old veteran of 117 Tests confirmed his decision to end his international career following the Boks’ World Cup final win. Mtawarira also brought the curtain down on his 13-year career with the Sharks.

‘I am so grateful for this journey that I have had in the Springbok rugby jersey and the Sharks jersey,’ Mtawarira said. ‘It has been amazing.

‘But I have also had the privilege of being involved with Fidelity Security Group over the past eight years, with Wahl Bartman who has been my mentor. So I have managed to get one foot in the business world. So that is my plan after rugby, to get involved in the business. I am one of the directors, so I have got a plan for after rugby.’

Mtawarira was speaking during the Durban leg of the Springboks’ World Cup victory parade, where thousands of fans turned out to celebrate the lifting of the Webb Ellis Cup.

‘Starting the trophy tour in Umhlanga, it was an awesome privilege to see our fans out on the streets,’ Mtawarira said. ‘Thank you so much to KwaZulu Natal for coming out in their numbers to cherish this special achievement that the Springboks have done in Japan. It means a lot for the whole country. If we are all aligned and we all forget about our differences and just think about making South Africa better. We truly thank you for your support, it is overwhelming. You guys have been a part of this journey. ‘

Photo: Gallo Images