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| 11 February 2004, 9:45 am |
| Budge Retires From Professional Rugby |
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Northampton Saints co-captain Budge Pountney today announced his retirement from professional rugby.
The former Scotland captain broke his left ankle in a pre-season friendly against Cardiff in September and has failed to fully recover despite intensive rehabilitation and specialist care.
Budge began his career at Northampton Saints in the 1994/95 season after working his way up through the U19s and U21s teams. He has played 215 games for the club since his debut against Coventry and scored 46 tries. He was made captain in the 2001/02 season. Budge earned 32 caps for Scotland and scored five tries.
Northampton Saints operations director John Steele said: "No-one has given better service to this club than Budge who was developed through our youth system to become an outstanding player at club and international level. Budge and his wife Ali have contributed hugely off the pitch and they are understandably extremely popular within the town."
Head coach Wayne Smith said: "This is the news we have been dreading from the moment the injury occurred. Budge's absence will be a huge loss to the game, not just as player but also spiritually. He is a great role model and a great leader who leads through example, not through talk. I never met anyone so tough. He will be sorely missed."
Budge said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my career with Northampton Saints - it has been a fantastic time. I have loved every minute of it. I would like to thank everyone at the club and all the supporters who have helped me along the way.
"I have always loved rugby and intend to stay within the game. During the last six months I have had plenty of time to learn some coaching skills both with Saints and local junior club Wellingborough, and I hope this will stand me in good stead for the future."
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