Australia's second most capped Test prop, Bill  Young, has announced his retirement from Rugby.   Young, who played 46 Tests for the Qantas Wallabies after making his Test debut against France in Paris in 2000, has decided to  hang up his boots after nine years in the professional game.  

How are you feeling after the big announcement?
Very disappointed, rugby has been a massive part of my life for the past 10 years.  I left school and virtually went straight into the professional rugby environment so I am about to face a real transition which will prove a big challenge.  I’m excited by what lies ahead though and I’m looking forward to being successful in business now that my sporting days are over.

What was the reason for your retirement? Can you explain your injury for us?
I had degenerative change with spurs having developed on my neck which were compressing the nerve resulting in spasms in my left hand and difficulty in movement in my left arm.  I plan on having an operation where the surgeon can clean these canals out, insert a plate into my neck and remove a lot of the pain and discomfort.

Was the injury a result of a particular incident or has it been developing over a period of time?
It has been degenerating for 2 years now however after the South African tour this year the effects flared up.  I had continued to play however the discomfort had begun to affect not only my rugby but my daily life.

You’ve had a stellar career, what were the highlights?
Two titles with the Brumbies, playing in the World Cup 2003 only 10 minutes from the family hotel and our Bledisloe wins.

Toughest opponents?
England were the toughest opponent as they dominated between 2000-2003 when I was a regular in the Wallabies.  The All Blacks were always a tough opponent and I enjoyed the challenge against them.

Individual opponents?
Greg Somerville and Carl Hayman. They played hard but fair and enjoyed a beer after the game. I respected both of them.

Do you plan to stay involved in rugby union in any capacity?
Yes I would like to stay involved as rugby has been such a huge part of my life. I don’t think any other coaching or administrative role will create the same camaraderie and friendships that I have formed with my team mates though.

What plans have you made for life after rugby?
We have 2 family hotels – the Concord Hotel and Wisemans Ferry - and I plan on being heavily involved in building their success and hopefully getting more pubs over time.

Some former team mates:

Al Baxter “Bill was one of the great characters of Australian rugby and I will miss playing and touring with him. He has been instrumental in setting up the culture anywhere he has been and particularly down at the Brumbies. He has been a leader and a character both on and off the field and will be sorely missed by the Brumbies and Australian rugby”

Jeremy Paul "It's a sad time for everyone to see Bill retire. He is so well liked by all the Brumbies and his Australian team mates and will leave a big hole in Australian Rugby. I wish him all the best."