Hendre Fourie quits after long struggle with injury

Sale and England flanker Hendre Fourie has retired after losing his struggle to overcome a shoulder problem.

The South Africa-born 33-year-old turned out for England on eight occasions, with his last appearance being in the 2011 pre-World Cup victory over Ireland in Dublin.

Fourie joined Sale from Leeds in 2011 but was limited to just a handful of games due to injury.

He will be replaced in the Sharks squad by former All Black Daniel Braid, who has signed up until the end of the season.

Sale director of rugby Steve Diamond said: “Unfortunately, Hendre has had to retire. We got the final confirmation last week after taking medical advice.

“As a club we have backed Hendre 100 per cent in his battle to get fit but unfortunately, his shoulder has not recovered. His body has been battered so much that the shoulder won’t recover.”

On the signing of Braid, Diamond added: “Dan joins us at a critical stage of our season.

“He is a hard-working flanker who tackles well and reads the game well too.

“He arrived in the UK on New Year’s Day and came to Carrington this morning to meet his new team-mates. He is an important signing for us and I am sure he will fit in perfectly.”