Mouritz Botha retires due to concussion

Mouritz Botha, former England and Newcastle Falcons second rower, has been compelled to make the unfortunate decision to retire from professional rugby. The South African born rugby star had to make this decision on the basis of medical advice, as he could not fully recover from a concussion sustained during the 2016/2017 campaigns. The player has handled the situation admirably, with him recognizing how fortunate he has been and admitting he ‘was truly blessed to have had enjoyed (his) time as a rugby player'.
The player began his career in South Africa, but made the move to England where he joined the Bedford Blues in 2006; where he made a total of 73 appearances. He then signed for the Saracens in 2009; and enjoyed continued success, playing 142 games. One can argue that his tenure here reached a high point with the 2011 Aviva Premiership trophy win.
The second rower also made ten international appearances for his adopted homeland, England. Playing for England was only made possible on residency grounds; and made his debut against Wales, where England won 23-19. His international career was impressive, for example, Botha was involved in every England game during the 2012 Six Nations; and was instrumental in England achieving second place.
In fact, the player's influence on the pitch was always a huge factor with many established online betting operators, when pricing up England's chance of success. This was actually admitted by a Sportingbet spokesman; and the player's dedication and drive was very much appreciated by English fans.
In 2015, Mouritz returned to South Africa and had joined up the Sharks, where he made eleven appearances in the Super Rugby season. In spite of his best efforts, the Sharks had a poor campaign, and he returned to England and joined the Newcastle Falcons on a three-year contract.
Botha played fourteen Premiership games for the Falcons during his first two seasons, before suffering the injury, which led to his sudden retirement. The Falcons director of rugby Dean Richards actually paid tribute to the player by stating Mouritz had a ‘great career which has seen him winning the Premiership title and playing international rugby for England'.
Going forward, the future of rugby will still benefit from Mouritz Botha's experience and talent; as he now focuses on a career in coaching. This really reflects the character and generous nature of the man, as he admits his main motivation here is ‘to give players the same experience that (he) had'.