Richards was a replacement for the 2007 World Cup final

London Irish scrum-half Peter Richards has been forced to retire from the sport at the age of 32 due to injury.

A back injury has restricted Richards to 16 appearances for Irish this season, the last in February.

Richards had two spells with the Exiles as well as playing for Gloucester, Wasps, Treviso, Bristol and Harlequins.

He made his international debut in 2006, winning 12 caps in total, and played in every match of the 2007 World Cup including the final.

Richards said: "I've had a great career and thoroughly enjoyed my rugby wherever I've played.

"I would like to have continued on for another couple of seasons, unfortunately that is not going to be physically possible.

"I would like to thank all the players, coaches and management and supporters at all the clubs I've played with for their help, friendship and encouragement."

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