Cape Town - Former Springbok and Sharks scrumhalf Michael Claassens has announced his retirement from the game.
READ: Sharks confirm departure of Geldenhuys, April
The 35-year-old represented the Durbanites in 29 Super Rugby appearances and 27 Currie Cup games.
Claassens began his career for the Free State Cheetahs - making 64 appearances - between 2003-2006 and was involved in the Cheetahs' 2005 Currie Cup triumph over the Blue Bulls.
He then plied his trade for English club Bath between 2007 and 2013.
In 2015, Claassens joined the Sharks from Toulon after being involved in the French club's 2014 Heineken Cup and Top 14 victories.
According to SARugbyMag, Claasens is set to pursue personal interests after largely playing a mentorship role to Sharks team-mates Louis Schreuder and Cameron Wright.
Claassens has eight caps for the Springboks between 2004 and 2007 - his final appearance coming against the All Blacks in 2007 Tri-nations.
The @CellC Sharks would like to wish a legend of the game and nippy Scrumhalf, @MichaelClaasse9, a happy farewell! Thank you for your contribution to #OurSharks over the years and all the best in your future ventures.#OurSharksForever pic.twitter.com/rHQO49VLgK
— The Sharks (@TheSharksZA) July 27, 2018
