Dragons, Wales and British & Irish Lions hooker Richard Hibbard has today announced his retirement from professional rugby.
Capped 38 times by Wales and a further three times by the British & Irish Lions, Hibbard has been a firm favourite with rugby fans throughout his illustrious career.
Hibbard moved to Rodney Parade in 2018 and made a total of 60 appearances for the Men of Gwent – scoring a memorable hat-trick against Connacht in February 2021.
The hugely popular 38-year-old – who also enjoyed successful playing spells with Ospreys and Gloucester Rugby – has now made the decision to hang up his boots through injury.
Dean Ryan, Director of Dragons Rugby, said: “Hibbz has been an important figure during my time at Dragons, both his efforts on the field and his work developing the youngsters in our squad.
“His contribution to Welsh rugby has also been enormous over the years, especially when you consider what he achieved and the impact he made for Wales and the British & Irish Lions.
“I’m sure he will be greatly missed by all supporters of our game, with whom he always had a great affinity.
“He leaves us with our very best wishes and Hibbz and his family will always be warmly welcomed back to Rodney Parade in the future.”
Hibbard’s career took off when he joined the Ospreys in 2004, having previously played for Swansea, and he went on to make over 175 appearances for the region.
He also enjoyed a spell in the English Premiership with Gloucester - making over a century of appearances - before moving back to Wales to join Dragons in the summer 2018.
Hibbard won a first call-up to the Wales squad to tour Argentina in 2006, winning his first two caps on tour. He went on to win 38 international caps.
He was selected in the British & Irish Lions squad to take on the Wallabies in 2013 and made three appearances.
“Well, I guess I’m very sad to say that, unfortunately, my body has finally said enough is enough,” said Hibbard.
“What a ride it’s been. I’ve been lucky enough to do everything I’ve wanted, and more, in this great game.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time at Dragons and it’s exciting to see the young front row talent and hookers coming through the ranks; that’s a real positive for the region,” he added.
“A huge thank you to the fans at Rodney Parade for all the support and I wish the Dragons every success for the future.”
READ RICHARD HIBBARD’S FULL STATEMENT HERE
His contribution to Welsh rugby has also been enormous over the years, especially when you consider what he achieved and the impact he made for Wales and the British & Irish Lions...
