Krige only moved to Franklin's Gardens last summer

Krige has decided to cut short his two-year contract because he is no longer convinced his body can withstand the rigours of professional rugby.

"The biggest decision for any player is to decide when and how to retire," said the former Springboks captain.

"My fear is that I would not be able to give that same commitment for another full season."

Krige, who turns 30 next month, will return to Cape Town in the summer to pursue business interests outside rugby.

"I know 30 is still quite young for a rugby player, but I have suffered several severe injuries during my 11-year career," he said.

"The birth of our child has also made me think differently about bashing my body about for a few more years."

Krige was recruited by former Northampton coach Alan Solomons and was immediately appointed captain.

I will do everything humanly possible to make sure this club remains in the Premiership Corne Krige

But when Solomons quit after Northampton had suffered a club record nine consecutive defeats, he stood down as captain.

In a ballot to decide the new skipper, the Saints squad then voted him vice-captain to Steve Thompson.

With seven league games remaining, Krige has vowed he will spare no energy in helping Northampton to avoid relegation.

"I will do everything humanly possible to make sure this club, with its proud heritage and traditions, remains in the Premiership," he said.

"I truly believe that a club that attracts so much ardent support deserves to stay in the Premiership."

Northampton's operations director John Steele added: "We are disappointed to learn that we will not have Corne with us next season and that he has announced his rugby retirement.