Bath lock Danny Grewcock to retire at season's end

Grewcock earned 69 international caps during his England career

Bath's former England lock Danny Grewcock is to retire at the end of the season and take up a role as a mentor to the young players at the club.

The 38-year-old, 2003 World Cup winner joined Bath from Saracens in 2001 and has made 226 appearances.

"Danny has been a pleasure to work with over the last five seasons," said head coach, Steve Meehan.

"He has always given his all, whether it is during a game, in training or in other activities away from the pitch."

Meehan continued: "Those are qualities that every player should have and I have no doubt that he will go on to be as successful in his new role at the club."

Grewcock started his playing career at his home club, Coventry, in 1996 before moving on to to Saracens a year later.

He has reached the highest level a player can, and should be very proud of his lengthy career

Sir Ian McGeechan

He made his England debut on the 1997 tour of Argentina, earning the first of his 69 international caps.

Grewcock was part of Sir Clive Woodward's 2003 World Cup-winning squad but had to fly home having played just one match after breaking his hand.

He was also selected for two British & Irish Lions tours, in Australia in 2001 and New Zealand four years later.

"Danny is one of the most respected players in the game today, and will remain so even after his retirement," said Bath's director of rugby and Lions legend, Sir Ian McGeechan.

"He has reached the highest level a player can, and should be very proud of his lengthy career."