The Blues and All Blacks prop Tony Woodcock has joined his front row colleague Keven Mealamu in announcing his retirement from Super Rugby.
Keven Mealamu and Tony Woodcock playing for the All Blacks, 2012. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The Blues ended their 2015 season on a sour note, losing 44-7 to the Highlanders on Eden Park to finish in second to last place on the competition ladder.
The drubbing in wet weather, however, didn't deter a vocal band of supporters who were determined to pay homage to Mealamu playing in the Blues jumper for the last time.
Woodcock would have joined him if it wasn't for a shoulder injury, but the pair fronted the media together after the match to reflect on their careers.
The prop forward, who has 149 Super Rugby Caps (137 for the Blues and 12 for the Highlanders) said he has decided to retire from all rugby.
"I've been weighing it up for half the season, but in the last week I came to the decision it was definitely time to pass it on. You can only go so far in this jersey and it's time to move on"
"I'll try and stay in reasonable condition, but I wont be playing footy."
Tony Woodcock and Keven Mealamu leave Eden Park through a guard of honour. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Capped 110 times for the All Blacks, Woodcock said he hopes to finish his career playing at the World Cup.
"That's something I'm aiming for. I did a flat out fitness session today that proves I'm keen to get there," he quipped.
Woodcock confirmed he's aiming to be available for the Test in Samoa on July the 8th
"In my mind that's where I want to be, so I want to be playing some game time there."
"It's a six week (shoulder) injury, so I've got a couple more weeks to go for it to be playable. I'm looking forward to what ever lies ahead."
After a standing ovation from the Blues faithful for winning his 175 cap for the franchise, Mealamu agreed with Woodcock that the team's fortunes are due to improve.
"I'd like to see us turn around really quickly. It's really tough at the moment what we're going through. Let's just make sure these lessons over the last couple of years are for a reason and we bounce back quickly."
According to Woodcock, the Blues poor results this season aren't through lack of effort.
"For me the most disappointing thing is the hard work the lads have put in this year with little reward. You can't say we haven't tried our guts out. I've got no doubt we'll turn the corner and be successful again. "
