London Irish centre Theo Brophy Clews forced to call time
BRENTFORD, ENGLAND - MARCH 14: Theo Brophy Clews of London Irish breaks past Matt Kvesic of Worcester Warriors during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby match between London Irish and Worcester Warriors at Brentford Community Stadium on March 14, 2021 in Brentford, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images)
LONDON Irish back Theo Brophy Clews has been forced to retire at just 24 because of concussion.
The England U20 international, a fly-half or centre, made his Premiership debut for the Exiles in the 2015-16 season after coming through the academy.
His last appearance came against Bath in the Challenge Cup quarterfinal, but he left the field after two minutes and failed a head injury assessment.
In an open letter to London Irish supporters, Brophy Clews said: “It is with a heavy heart that I announce my retirement from professional rugby due to concussion.
“It's clear to me I cannot continue to play, as I would be putting both my shortterm and my long-term health at risk.
“I think that rugby is an incredibly special sport and it's been a dream come true to play it professionally.”
Brophy Clews made 63 appearances for Irish.
