Kees Lensing, Namibia's powerful loosehead prop who has captained his country has caused surprise by hanging up his boots at the age of 32.

Lensing was expected to play an important role in the Namibian side at the 2011 Rugby World Cup but with 10 months to go has retired.

Back in Pretoria at the end of his contract with Castres, Lensing told Die Republikein that there were various reasons for his retirement. He said: "I am no longer a professional rugby player and so no longer have medical cover in the case of a serious medical problem. I am also not as fit as professional players are.

"I have just started new employment with my father-in-law's engineering firm, which makes it hard to be overseas for a month at two at a time.

"It was not an easy decision but I believe Namibia has younger players like Johnny Redelinghuys who can carry the team.

"I will remain proud of Namibia and ready to help in other ways. I have just done my coaches' exam of the IRB's Level 2.

"I want to than the Namibian Rugby Union for the opportunities over the last few years to represent my country. That was a great honour and the highlight of my rugby =career. I am proud to be associated with the brave, enthusiastic players who put their bodies on the line for their country. I should like to make my experience available to Namibia at a management or coaching level."

Gideon Lensing was born in Keetmanshoop on 1 June 1978. He played at the World Cups of 2003 and 20097. In all he played 23 times for Namibia. He also played for the Griffons, Eastern Province, the Bulls and the Sharks in South Africa, Leeds in England and Castres in France. - rugb365.com