WP Nel: Gregor Townsend pays tribute as Scotland & Edinburgh prop announces retirement

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WP Nel has been hailed as “among the best props to play for Scotland” after it was announced he will retire at the end of the season.

The 37-year-old South Africa-born tighthead will conclude the campaign with Edinburgh, having made his 200th appearance for the club on Saturday.

Nel moved to Scotland in 2012 and made his international debut three years later, going on to make 61 appearances.

“To play for Scotland is something I’m incredibly proud of,” Nel said.

“The memories in the jersey are unbelievable. When you stand there, singing the anthem, it’s a moment to be proud of, to be part of a team that will represent Scotland.”

Nel played in three World Cups, with his final Scotland appearance coming in the defeat by Ireland in Paris last year after he missed the Six Nations through injury.

Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend paid tribute to him and the “huge amount” he has given to Scottish rugby.

“He was a joy to coach as every time he took to the training pitch he gave it his all, no matter how much his body was giving him issues,” he added.

“WP will rank amongst the best props to play for Scotland, highly respected from coaches and players alike – and he also has a brilliant sense of humour.

“We’ll miss his smile, his love of the scrum and some very skilful moments that often lit up our training sessions.

“We wish him all the best for the rest of the season and in his retirement.”