Sarries stalwart to call time on his career this summer

Saracens back Chris Wyles has announced he will retire from professional rugby at the end of the current season.

The 34-year-old moved to the north Londoners from Northampton Saints in 2008 and has gone on to make 243 appearances for the Allianz Park outfit.

In his time with Sarries, Wyles has won three Aviva Premiership titles and two European Cups, and will want to add to that haul this term.

The former USA captain is retiring to focus full-time on Wolfpack Lager, a business venture with former Sarries lock Alistair Hargreaves.

Wyles, though, revealed it was still a hard choice to call time on what has been a hugely successful career.

“It’s been an incredibly tough decision to make,” he told the club website.

“There was an opportunity to continue my time at Saracens but it feels like now is the perfect time to step away from rugby and turn my attention full time to Wolfpack Lager.

“I’d like to thank Saracens for the huge amount of support they have given me and my family throughout the years.

“If it weren’t for the backing of the club, Wolfpack Lager would not be in the position it is today.

“While it’s going to be hard moving on from rugby the support Saracens have given me means the transition will hopefully be a smooth one.

“Saracens is a special and unique club that I will undoubtedly miss.

“An occasion like our trip to Verbier sums it all up. Time spent together skiing, enjoying the mountains and getting to really know each other led to memories that will last a lifetime.

“Having the opportunity to then play with such great guys and talented players week in week out has been a privilege.

“My time at Saracens would not have been the same without the fantastic support of the Sarries fans.

“I’m eternally grateful to them for everything they have given me over my time here and the club wouldn’t be where we are without them.

“I’d also like to thank those who brought me to Saracens, my teammates and the coaching staff – particularly Mark McCall and Nigel Wray.”