Former Premiership winner Will Chudley to retire at end of season

Coventry scrum-half Will Chudley has announced that he will retire from rugby at the end of the season.

The 36-year-old has spent the last season-and-a-half in the Championship having joined Coventry after his former club Worcester Warriors went into liquidation in 2022.

He has had a huge impact on the club since then, helping them to their best-ever finish last season, third, which they can improve on this season with the club currently sat in second place with three matches remaining.

Chudley has played for various clubs across England throughout his career, but spent the bulk of his time with Exeter Chiefs. He played almost 150 games for the Chiefs between 2012 and 2018, coming on from the bench in the 2017 Gallagher Premiership final win over Wasps. During that time, he also represented England against the Barbarians in 2015.

The scrum-half plans to become a full-time financial advisor in his post-rugby life, something he has done alongside playing for Coventry. He does hope to remain in rugby though.

Chudley started in Coventry's recent 52-26 win over Nottingham, and will be pivotal as his side seek a strong end to the season, where they face fourth place Bedford Blues on Saturday, and third place Cornish Pirates in his final match.

“I've had such a great time here at Cov,” Chudley said after announcing his retirement. “Reuniting with Razor (Alex Rae) and Scays (James Scaysbrook) has been fantastic; they're remarkable individuals and excellent coaches.

“Coventry became my haven during a time of uncertainty and fear with Worcester and coming here has proven to be one of the best choices I've ever made.

“The team dynamic and the culture fostered by the coaches, Jon Sharp and Nick Johnston make this place truly special, and I am confident that this group will only get better.

“Without a doubt, I have loved every minute of my time as a Cov Dog.”

Coventry head coach Alex Rae added: “I’m gutted Will won’t be around next year but want to congratulate him on a fantastic career.

“First and foremost he’s a great person and role model for our young playing group.

“His performances on the pitch have made him the stand-out no.9 in this league; he has added so much.

“We were pleased to be able to give Will two enjoyable years and it is great to see him go out with a smile on his face.

“He’ll always be welcome at the Butts and I hope we see plenty of him.”