Exeter Chiefs lock Matt Postlethwaite announces retirement

Exeter Chiefs have announced that lock Matt Postlethwaite has been forced to retire on medical grounds.

A product of Yorkshire Carnegie Academy, Postlethwaite joined the club last season and made three first-team appearances in the Premiership Rugby Cup before he was sidelined by an injury.

Prior to his association with Exeter, he had a six-season stint with Sale Sharks and had loan stints with Fylde, Rotherham Titans and Doncaster Knights.

The 27-year-old is now looking to pursue a career away from sport.

“It’s been a tough period of time for me, getting injured and then trying to com back following my operation. This is not how I would have wanted my time in the sport to come to an end, but I’ve loved every minute of my time at Exeter Chiefs," he told the club's official website.

“This club has a very special group of lads and I feel proud and privileged to have been a part of the team this year.

“I’d like to sincerely thank Rob Baxter and all the Chiefs staff for giving me the opportunity to have played for such a great club. The help they have also given me off the field has been invaluable.

“I’ve enjoyed my time in Devon so much that I plan to remain here with my family. I must thank them, especially my wife Kate, for the endless support they have given me throughout my career.

“I can’t wait to see what the club can go on to achieve, and I wish all of the boys the very best for the future.”