Cracknell calls it a day

 

The Exeter Chiefs, Bath and Worcestor Warriors flank, who was also one of the first centrally contracted England Sevens players, suffered a serious knee injury late in his career from which he never fully recovered.

 

Former England Sevens captain Damian Hopley said: "Chris has been an outstanding member of the England Sevens squad for a number of years and can look back on his stellar career with great pride. 

 

"Not only did Chris captain his country with great success, he was one of the pioneers of the centrally contracted Sevens squad enjoying significant tournament victories in New Zealand, Dubai and in front of his home crowd in London. 

 

"It is always a huge blow when injury robs a player of his career but knowing Chris's determination and exceptional work ethic, I have no doubt that he will bounce back from this setback to go onto greater success away from the field. As with all of our members, we will provide whatever help we can and we wish Chris every success with the next stage of his career," he added.

 

Speaking about his retirement Cracknell said: "Playing for England Sevens was, and will remain the highlight of my rugby career. I've been lucky to play alongside some great players, under some excellent coaches and made some outstanding friends. 

 

"I'd like to thank everyone that has supported me through the years to all corners of the globe and given me these opportunities. Most importantly my family who have sacrificed so much for me so that I could pursue a career in rugby in the first place. I'm really looking forward to the next chapter of my life and my first Christmas off in 12 years," he added.