Brumbies record cap holder Ben Alexander has announced his retirement from professional rugby following a long and glittering career.

The prop, who played 154 times for the Brumbies in Super Rugby and won 72 Test caps for the Wallabies, leaves behind a plethora of sporting memories.

Alexander, born in Sydney, joined the Brumbies in 2008 and made his debut the same year against the Reds in Canberra replacing Salesi Ma’afu in the 43-11 home success.

A regular substitute in his first season, Alexander made his first start the following year at Ellis Park in Johannesburg against the Lions.

Quickly forging a reputation as a solid performer, and an expert proponent of the set-piece, Alexander made an impression on the national selectors and was called up for a first Wallabies appearance after only playing half-a-dozen times for the Brumbies.

He made his Wallabies debut as a 59th minute replacement for Benn Robinson in the 34-13 win over France at Stadium Australia in Sydney in 2008 and was a regular selection thereafter with his ability to play either side of the scrum a massive plus for his coaches at all levels.

“Ben has been a loyal club man and incredible talent,” said Brumbies CEO Michael Thomson about the announcement.

“Not only is he a tremendous rugby player, Ben is also a wonderful man and is a very popular person amongst the players, staff and supporters. His commitment to the club is second-to-none and is exemplified by his retirement as our record cap holder.

“To play over 150 matches in Super Rugby for one team is testament to his qualities but, to everyone who knows him, Ben is so much more than a rugby player, being the successful businessman and great family-man. His experience and presence will be missed on the field, but we are hoping that he will continue to be a regular visitor to the club.

“We thank Ben for his contribution and wish he and his young family all the best for the future.”

Brumbies head coach Dan McKellar echoed Thomson’s comments about a player who was part of the fabric of the Canberra-based club for over a decade of service.

“Ben has been at the club for a long period of time and is a guy who is very popular amongst the playing group, is highly respected, and has had a tremendous career having made a significant contribution to the Brumbies,” said McKellar.

“Ben started as a Loose head and moved across to Tight head and, at times through his career, he played one for the Brumbies and different for the Wallabies. That says a lot about his character in that he always did what was best for the team and the group.

“Because of his experience, and the fact he has been around for a long time, he has an opinion that you value, and that knowledge and experience is something that we will miss.”

Alexander’s last match in a Brumbies shirt was the 40-31 win over the Waratahs at Allianz Stadium in Sydney earlier this year when he replaced fellow front-row Nic Mayhew in the 62nd minute. A fitting end to a glorious career.