Liam Coltman announces retirement from professional rugby

Former All Blacks hooker Liam Coltman has announced his retirement from professional rugby at the age of 36. The announcement follows Otago's NPC semi-final defeat to Northland, in which Coltman appeared as a substitute.

Coltman's career spanned 17 seasons and included significant stints across several countries. He rose to prominence with the Highlanders, playing a key role in their 2015 title win, and earned eight Test caps for New Zealand between 2016 and 2019, including appearances at the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

His international club career included playing for Lyon in France's Top 14, the Utah Warriors in the United States, and the Canon Eagles in Japan, before returning to New Zealand to finish his career with Otago. Reflecting on his decision, Coltman stated, “it is time to hang up the boots,” adding that the memories and friendships made throughout his career were the best parts of the sport.