The following from News 24:-
"Chiefs prop Ben Afeaki on Friday announced his retirement from rugby due to medical reasons.
The 27-year-old suffered concussion in a Super Rugby against the Crusaders in February last year and has not played since.
“I am very fortunate that I have achieved some awesome things in rugby but now is the time that I have to make a decision that is best for my health long-term, and that is to retire from all rugby,” Afeaki told the Chiefs’ official website.
“I have been part of a team that has won back-to-back Super Rugby championships. I have lived out a boyhood dream of playing for the All Blacks and played for a very special team in the Maori All Blacks and captained my provincial union, North Harbour.
“During that time I have built some life-long friendships, had some awesome experiences and received amazing support and care from the Chiefs, North Harbour and New Zealand Rugby.”
Afeaki played one Test for the All Blacks in 2013. He played 36 matches for the Chiefs, eight matches for the Maori All Blacks and 58 for North Harbour, also captaining the side.
Afeaki is excited about his future prospects and is currently exploring business opportunities for the next phase of his life."
When I first became involved in Fantasy rugby in 2013 - I started to make a real study of NZ players. I thought that of all the NZ props Afeaki was the best they had over the past few years - and that include all the AB props.
It is a pity that he has to retire at the age of 27 and one can only wish him well for the future.
