Newby calls it a day

New Zealand and Leicester flank Craig Newby was forced to retire on Monday after losing his battle to recover from a serious knee injury.

The 33-year-old, who won three New Zealand caps, made 84 appearances for Leicester following his arrival at Welford Road in 2008 and helped the club win the Premiership title in 2009 and 2010.

"It was a fantastic journey and I would not change a thing. Well, maybe look after the knees better," he wrote on Twitter.

"A massive thanks to all that have supported me throughout my career in NZ and UK. Sad to leave the game that's given and taken so much."

Rotorua-born Newby spent the bulk of his career in New Zealand, playing for Otago, the Highlanders, North Harbour and the Blues. He also had a short stint with Newcastle Falcons in 2002.

But Newby took great pleasure from adapting successfully to life in England and plans to remain there as he looks to continue his involvement in rugby as a coach.

"Coming to Leicester has been a great experience and I have a lot of good memories," he said.

""We've been involved in a lot of big games, the semifinals and finals in the Premiership and in the cup competitions. There have been a lot of highlights.

"Outside the rugby, the thing that stands out for me is that, although the club is a big business, it is also like a big family and everyone is very welcoming.

"I've made some good mates in England. I love living here and that's something I want to continue to do. I would like to stay in rugby in some capacity and coaching does appeal to me.

"I've worked with a lot of good coaches and top-class players in my career, and I would like to think I have picked up a knowledge of the game that I would like to pass on in a coaching capacity somewhere."