In March this year the full-back announced his decision to hang up his boots after the Rugby World Cup but following a period of reflection Hogg has decided to finish his career prior to the tournament due to the strain on his body.Like all those bemused victims of his footwork and pace across the span of his 11 years as a Test player, no-one saw it coming.
The update on Sunday that the end is now rather than nigh was less of a shock. Last month, Scotland went on a pre-World Cup training camp in France and Hogg was not involved.
Scottish Rugby said it was down to personal reasons, but the suspicion began to form at that point that something was up.
Hogg had originally intended to finish his career after this autumn's World Cup but has now 'with great sadness' conceded defeat in his battle to be fit for the tournament.
The 31-year-old full-back, who represented his country at two World Cups, became their all-time leading try-scorer in 2021 and collected his 100th international cap against Ireland earlier this year.
After his debut, Hogg made an instant impact in his first start at Murrayfield scoring a try against France.
The man from Hawick has represented Scotland at two World Cups whilst also captaining the side in back-to-back wins over England in 2021 and 2022 as well as a historic victory against France in the Stade de France.
In his club career, Hogg experienced success, winning the PRO12 with Glasgow Warriors in 2015 followed by lifting the European Champions Cup and Gallagher Premiership in 2020 with Exeter Chiefs.
“To reach 100 caps this year was fitting and just reward for a career that has seen him represent the British & Irish Lions and win trophies both domestically and at a European level.
“We respect his decision to step away now and understand the stresses and challenges his body has gone through in recent seasons. He has been an integral part of our squad for many years, as well as captaining the side to famous victories over England and France in 2021, and we all wish him well in his career post rugby. We look forward to welcoming him back to support us from the stands.”
“To reach 100 caps this year was fitting and just reward for a career that has seen him represent the British & Irish Lions and win trophies both domestically and at a European level.
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