Dwayne Peel has been called a Welsh legend by his club coach Sean Holley after the former Wales scrum-half announced his decision to retire.
The Bristol captain has been forced to call it a day due to an ongoing shoulder injury.
Peel has managed only 20 appearances for the English club since 2014 and is to join the coaching staff of the Championship leaders for the rest for the season.
Former Ospreys coach Holley said: “It’s really disappointing that Dwayne has to retire, but I’d like to congratulate him on a fantastic career.
“He’s a legend of the game and a true rugby hero in our homeland, in Wales, and he’s renowned around the world. He’s a top bloke and he’ll have a big future ahead of him in the game, in coaching hopefully, which he embarks on with immediate effect.
“He’s started doing some coaching this year with the A team and B&I Cup team – and he’s doing well.
“He’s got lots to learn, in terms of the general coaching process, but he clearly knows the actual game very well. He’ll do very well.
“He’ll be instrumental around the first-team squad in helping them through to the play-offs. His experience is invaluable and he’ll be a big part of our push now towards the end of the season, and then he’ll be with us again next year.”
Peel started all three Tests on the 2005 British and Irish Lions tour to New Zealand in 2005.
The 34-year-old amassed 76 caps, was part of the Grand Slam-winning teams of 2005 and 2008 and captained Wales at the 2007 World Cup.
‘It was a tough decision to make because I love the game, but following medical advice, I really had no further choice,’ Peel said.
‘I’ve been fortunate enough to enjoy some incredible experiences during my playing career and have met some fantastic people.
‘I’m grateful to Bristol for their support and will continue to work hard alongside the coaching team to ensure the season ends on a high.’
