Speaking of his decision, Reddan said: "I have been privileged to be part of so many successful teams over the course of my career. To win European and domestic honours with both Wasps and Leinster has been fantastic and to taste Six Nations success with Ireland over the past three seasons has been incredible.

Reddan began his rugby career at Old Crescent RFC and went on to represent Munster at Schools and U19s level. He played for Old Crescent in the All Ireland League before making the switch from Munster to Connacht in 2001. He re-joined Munster in 2003 making 27 appearances over the following two seasons.

Reddan's finest hours? Probably all three Heineken Cup finals. He was outstanding in every single one, especially v Northampton.

— Whiff of Cordite (@WhiffofCordite) June 23, 2016

In 2005 he joined London Wasps where he won a Heineken Cup and a Guinness Premiership title before signing for Leinster at the start of the 2009/10 season. At Leinster Reddan played a significant role in driving the province to two Heineken Cup successes, an Amlin Challenge Cup and two PRO12 titles.

Reddan has enjoyed a ten year senior international career with Ireland making his debut against France in the Six Nations in February 2006 at the Stade de France. He is in line to win his 71st cap for Ireland this weekend against the Springboks

“I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that professional rugby has provided over the course of my career but feel that now is the right time to commit to the next chapter of my life and take on a new challenge,” Reddan said. “I am grateful to Leinster and the IRFU for supporting my decision to take up this opportunity.

“I'd like to finish by thanking everyone who supported me and the teams I have played in. It was humbling to experience that level of support whether it be on the best days or the toughest and I will never forget it.”

Many in the rugby world have paid tribute to the 35-year-old.

Two Six Nations, 3 Heineken Cups, 2 Pro 12 titles and a Premiership. Decent auld haul all the same for Mr Reddan.

— Neil Treacy (@neil_treacy) June 23, 2016

Eoin Reddan to retire from rugby after Saturday's final Test in Port Elizabeth. He's had a cracking career and always good to deal with.

— Rúaidhrí O'Connor (@RuaidhriOC) June 23, 2016

BREAKING: Eoin Reddan to retire from rugby. #ThanksRedser pic.twitter.com/THuHifvXj9

— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) June 23, 2016

Great servant to Irish rugby.. good luck with whatever he decides to do.

— ⭐Declan Delaney ⭐ 🇺🇦 (@chairmandec) June 23, 2016

"Since joining from Wasps for the 2009/10 season, Eoin has been a key figure for Leinster Rugby,” manager Leo Cullen said “His contribution over the years to the success of the team both on-field, and off-field in his role with the leadership group, has been immense and he leaves a lasting impression on all those that were lucky enough to work with him on a daily basis.

"Eoin will definitely be missed but also the wider Reddan family and his dad Don in particular who rarely missed a Leinster away trip and was always a huge supporter of Eoin and of this team.