Eric Miller retires from rugby
Ireland international backrow Eric Miller has announced his retirement from international rugby.
The current Leinster player has decided to call time on his career with Ireland, but will continue to see out his current contract with Leinster until the end of this season, at which time he will retire from all rugby.
Eric Miller won 48 Caps for Ireland, making his debut against Italy in 1997. He was selected for the first ever professional tour by the British & Irish Lions to South Africa in 1997, where he was the youngest member of the touring party and played for Ireland in the 1999 and 2003 World Cup tournaments. He was also capped for Ireland at Schools, Under 21 and A levels.
Commenting on the news, Ireland Coach Eddie O'Sullivan said: "Eric has been a magnificent servant to both Leinster and Ireland. The first year I coached Eric was at Under 21 level where he was hugely influential in Ireland winning its first Triple Crown at that level in 1996.
"As a testament to his skill and ability at that age, he became a Lion the following year when he toured South Africa. In recent years he has been an ever present in Irish squads, but has been consistently unlucky with injuries, often sustained due to the committed nature in which he plays the game.
"I wish him every success in his future career plans".
IRFU Chief Executive, Philip Browne said: "I would like to take this opportunity to wish Eric the very best of luck for the future and thank him for his services to Irish Rugby".
Leinster Rugby chief executive, Mick Dawson said: "Eric has been a model professional throughout his career. His departure at the end of this season will leave a big hole in our squad as players of Eric's ability are very hard to replace. I wish him all the best".
