Story highlights Warburton last played in 2017

Cites health as reason for quitting

Captained Lions to series win in Australia

(CNN) British and Irish Lions captain Sam Warburton has shocked the world of rugby, retiring from the game at the age of just 29.

The Welshman, who won 74 Wales and five Lions caps, led his country to Grand Slam and Six Nations glory and will be regarded as one of the best Welsh players in history.

His last match was the Lions' historic Test draw against New Zealand in June 2017, after which he underwent neck and knee surgery.

"Unfortunately, after a long period of rest and rehabilitation the decision to retire from rugby has been made with my health and wellbeing as a priority as my body is unable to give me back what I had hoped for on my return to training," said Warburton in a statement.

"I cannot thank the Welsh Rugby Union and Cardiff Blues enough, who have gone beyond the call of duty, in providing the support I received to help me get back on the field, for which I will be forever grateful."