All Black Forced To Retire At Just 29 Due To Effects Of Concussion

Hurricanes lock James Broadhurst has called time on his rugby playing career due to the ongoing effects of concussion.

The 29-year-old Super Rugby star, who has one cap for the All Blacks, said it had been difficult to be advised by medical experts to walk away from the game he loved, but ultimately it was the right advice.

“I’ve been away from the game for a little over 18 months and still experience symptoms which affect my daily life.

“Some extensive efforts have gone into getting me back to sport by medical professionals in and out of rugby. Even though it hasn’t resulted in the outcome I had hoped for, I owe each and every one of them a huge debt, as my health has improved massively and this will undoubtedly give me quality of life in the future.”

The lock forward said he wanted to publicly acknowledge the assistance and support he’d received from his partner Brooke, friends, family, and the rugby community including Taranaki, the Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby.

“The support I’ve received from players and management has been overwhelming. I’d like to thank every player and coach I’ve been involved with over the years who have assisted me on my rugby path, and everyone who will assist me during my transition to the next stage of life.

“They say for a door to open, others must close, so I look forward to the next chapter in anticipation, rather than looking back at the rugby chapter with sadness.”

Broadhurst made his debut for New Zealand on 25 July 2015 against South Africa. In September that year Broadhurst received two serious head knocks while representing Taranaki and was taken off the field due to concussion. Broadhurst has not played a game of rugby since then, with symptoms of concussion still ongoing for him.