Powell joined Warriors from Harlequins in 2003

Worcester Warriors scrum-half Matt Powell has announced he will retire at the end of the season.

The Welsh 30-year-old will remain at Sixways as skills coach and attack analyst from next season.

"I've had 12 years playing in this league and I was ready for a different and a new challenge," he told BBC Hereford and Worcester.

"I'll miss running out on Saturdays but as long as the club's moving forward that's enough motivation."

The former Harlequins man, who has made 150 appearances for the Warriors, is looking forward to joining the backroom staff.

"For a guy of my age to be offered an opportunity like this is a real honour and what's so exciting is the potential we have," he said.

My family who are coming along might be more emotional about it than me Matt Powell on his final home game

"Although I'm very proud of helping Worcester get where we are, we need to push on to the next step.

"I enjoy the tactical side of it, so I'll probably be heavily involved and I'll be in and around the players," he said.

After six years with the Warriors, Powell will make his final home appearance against London Irish on Saturday.

"It's something I've been getting my head around for the last year and on Saturday it's not about me.

"My family who are coming along might be more emotional about it than me, but for me it's whatever we can do to get this team moving forward.

"It will be a tough game and they're desperate for five points and they'll throw everything at it," he said.

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