Former Scotland international Johnnie Beattie has retired
Former Scotland number eight Johnnie Beattie has announced his retirement from rugby. The 34-year-old ex-Glasgow Warriors, Montpellier and Castres forward finished his career with a three-year stint at French club Bayonne.
Beattie, who began his career with Glasgow in 2004 before earning 38 caps for Scotland, wrote on Instagram. “That inevitable moment in every sportsperson’s career has arrived,” he posted.
“After 16 years of rugby life in Scotland and France, the time is right to retire from playing the sport I love professionally. Professional rugby has allowed me to meet and work with some incredible people, from all over the world.
“The inspirational places, people, experiences, tournaments, supporters, anthems and matches were all a privilege to be part of, and I realise I have been very fortunate to live out my dreams practising and playing my sport.”
Beattie’s Scotland debut came in 2006 against Romania. He left for France in 2012 and had two seasons with Montpellier, and a further two with Castres before he signed for Bayonne in 2016.
He said: “I look forward to applying cultural lessons learned in leadership, teamwork, respect and enjoyment as I move into new adventures.”
- Press Association
WATCH: Ellis Genge tells The Rugby Pod how he deals with the pressures of social media in rugby
Latest Comments
It's ridiculously good watching Bristol atm. That said, I still have reservations about how Lam's approach will hold up once the weather starts to influence games through the coming winter months. I can see Bath and Sarries grinding wins out and maybe pulling away by keeping things tight in wet conditions when Bristol may start to struggle to hold onto the ball.
Interesting that Marcus Smith declined a big salary to join Bristol when you'd think Bristol's style would suit Marcus down to a T. I'm wondering if Bristol are too loose and maybe incompatible with Borthwick's designs for how he wants England to play, especially at 10, which may have influenced Marcus' decision.
Agree that it was disappointing to see Bristol perform so poorly against La Rochelle and Leinster. Weather and loss of McGinty played their part, but I don't think it's insurmountable that Bristol can one day start challenging the top European sides with their brand of open, expansive, running rugby.
Go to commentsI can't see them getting to the final of the Champons Cup.
Go to comments