Tuesday 17 February 2015 13:06, UK
Cardiff Blues flanker Rory Watts-Jones has been forced to retire from professional rugby on medical grounds.
Watts-Jones suffered a concussion-related injury in November and his decision comes in the wake of high-profile head injuries to Wales pair George North and Samson Lee in the Six Nations game against England in Cardiff.
The 26-year-old was advised to call time on his career following discussions with medical specialists.
A statement from Cardiff Blues read: "After a period of recovery and specialist review, under the guidance of Cardiff Blues medical team, Watts-Jones was advised to retire with his long-term health regarded the highest priority."
Watts-Jones made 31 appearances for the Blues and the region's director of rugby Mark Hammett believes the player had no option other than to retire.
"The medical team have worked closely with Rory and his long-term health has always been our utmost priority,” Hammett said.
And Watts-Jones conceded there will be a period of adjustment after his career was cut short.
"I am obviously devastated after accepting medical advice that I should retire from rugby,” Watts-Jones said.
"Having put in so much to have my career cut short before I had reached my full potential is hard to take."
