'It’s not the end, but only the beginning': Stormers lock Chris Van Zyl calls time on career

Stormers lock Chris van Zyl has called time on his rugby career after announcing his retirement on social media on Wednesday.

Van Zyl (34) who represented the Stormers 34 times and captained Western Province to Currie Cup glory in 2017 started his career in Johannesburg, first turning out for the Lions in 2013 before moving to Cape Town in 2015. 

Van Zyl said that it was now time to "enter the next chapter of my life".

 "My dream had always been to represent the Stormers and Western Province. I am honoured to have been afforded this opportunity and have had the opportunity to lead the team. My overriding emotion is one of endless gratitude," Van Zyl said in a statement on Twitter.

"The time has come for me to exit the game that I love on my terms and to enter the next chapter of my life. Once again, it’s not the end, but only the beginning."

Van Zyl thanked his family, friends, teammates and support staff for the part they played in his rugby journey.