1
Luke McAlister will not be joining Ospreys... or any club for that matter
By Ian Cameron
Luke McAlister has indirectly put paid to rumours linking him to the Ospreys in the PRO14 by announcing his retirement from the game.
The 34-year-old McAlister has enjoyed a storied career in the South of France after leaving the All Black setup in 2010.
McAlister posted to social media saying: "It’s a good time to let you all know that I have called it a day on my rugby career. It’s been one hell of a ride, 17 years travelling the globe doing what I love.
"I’m so grateful for the friendships that I’ve made as well as the endless memories. There's been so many highs and lows along with a sh** load of injuries.
"There’s been so much work put in over the years, that you guys don’t see as well as balancing my family life. Massive thanks to my family for your support over the years. I’ve had some tough times over my career and you guys have always been there by my side no matter what."
McAlister paid tribute to his family and his 'beautiful kids', before also lauding his supporters.
"And lastly the fans [,] you guys, thanks for your support over the years.
"I’m proud of my career and what I’ve done in this beautiful sport now it’s time for the next chapter which is to move back to the best city in the world Toulouse ( a little biased)."
The 5’11, 95kg Waitara born back played for Sale Sharks, Toulouse, Toulon and Clermont on loan. He won 30 caps for the All Blacks with 11 coming from the bench.
McAlister was largely seen as an understudy to Dan Carter during his time in New Zealand, and was arguably one of the most talented All Blacks of his generation to turn his back on representing his country in favour of playing in Europe; all at the age of just 23.
Trending on RugbyPass
2
Scotland's Sione Tuipulotu admits anger at Australian rugby
3
Fissler Confidential: Willie le Roux rumours ignite after Bok star spo
4
France player ratings vs Argentina | Autumn Nations Series
5
Latest Comments
Even with absences we still had the cattle to make the playoffs. As it was, we nearly stumbled our way into the top 8. Which shows just how easy it was to get there. And still we failed. As for Razor, there are many instances of him patching up the Crusaders roster. Numerous. Several players Id never heard of. Also, using AB legend John Afoa was a classic.
But, some of the games we were losing were from schoolboy errors, or downright confusion. Either the players were really dumb (they weren’t) or they were poorly coached. Given the repetitive nature of errors, brain fades, poor decision making, & loose structures, this all lands with the coaching group.
With only six playoff spots now in SR, & Aussie franchises now consolidated to four, 2025 looks like a tight one. We'll have to tough it out under Penney & hope for the best.
Go to commentsAgree we need a 10, 12, 13 refresh. ASAP. Well, next season now lol. Reiko should be put back on the wing. He'll be an absolute menace there. Imagine 11 Reiko 14 Clarke 15 Jordan as the backfield unit.
Go to comments