Leicester Tigers flanker Craig Newby quits rugby

Leicester Tigers flanker Craig Newby has retired from rugby with immediate effect due to a knee injury.

The 33-year-old Kiwi becomes the second Tigers back-rower in a week to announce the end of his career.

Fellow flanker Ben Woods has also been forced to hang up his boots after a broken wrist failed to heal.

Newby, who had a year left on his contract, had knee surgery in the summer. He was making good progress with a return date of later this month likely.

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But what director of rugby Richard Cockerill called a "set back" proved to be much more than that and the affable New Zealander has had to call it a day.

"Coming to Leicester Tigers has been a great experience and I have a lot of good memories from playing for the club," he said.

"We've been involved in a lot of big games and there have been a lot of highlights. Outside of rugby, the thing that stands out is that, although the club is a big business, it is also like a big family and everyone is very welcoming."

Newby, who has three caps for New Zealand, played 84 games for Tigers since his arrival in October 2008. He ended last season with a superb performance in the Aviva Premiership semi-final.

Newby said he hoped that his future could lie within the sport.

"I've made some good mates in England. I love living here and that is something I want to continue to do," said Newby.

"I've worked with a lot of good coaches and top-class players, and I would like to think I have picked up a knowledge of the game that I would like to pass on in a coaching capacity somewhere."

Cockerill said: "It is sad to see his career come to an end due to his knee injury, but we all wish him well. His leadership qualities have been very important to us."