Popoalii forced to retire

Highlanders’ wing Buxton Popoalii has announced his retirement from all rugby.

The popular Highlanders and Otago wing has recently undergone heart surgery to fix a heart valve.

The problem was detected in early January and curtailed his 2014 season to just one appearance against the Crusaders in pre-season.

Highlanders team doctor Greg Macleod said that due to the nature of the surgery, and what the surgeons were required to do to alleviate any ongoing issues, Popoalli has been advised to stop playing.

Popoalii who underwent surgery in Auckland last week, has been discharged from hospital and is recuperating well.

Highlanders CEO Roger Clark said it is obviously a tough time for the player and his family.

"While we are delighted the operation has gone well and the outlook for his health is positive, we are naturally feeling for him and respect and fully support his decision to retire from rugby," Clark said.

I know the team and management have great admiration for Bucky and wish him a speedy recovery from his operation."

Popoalii played 15 games for the Highlanders making his debut against the Chiefs in 2012 and was known as an electric wing who possessed a big side-step and blistering pace off the mark.