All Black star announces shock retirement

Dagg's long-term knee injury hadn't allowed him to train and play at an elite level, so after taking medical advice he has decided to retire.

It brings the curtain down on a stellar rugby career which began in 2006 when Dagg made his debut as an 18-year-old Hawke's Bay.

Dagg, one of the characters of top level rugby, played 66 tests for the All Blacks between 2010 and 2017, 89 matches for the Crusaders (2011-2018), 25 games for the Highlanders (2009-2010), and made 50 appearances for Hawke's Bay between 2006 and 2015.

"It's been an honour to represent the All Blacks, Crusaders and Hawke's Bay over the years and I'm incredibly proud to have worn each of those jerseys throughout my career.

"While it's bittersweet to mark the end of my playing career, I'm grateful to still be able to contribute to this Crusaders team in 2019 and help prepare some of the younger squad members to take the next step in their own careers.

"On a personal note, I'm looking forward to taking on some new challenges in the future, and looking forward to spending more time with my young family."