Another Scotland star has retired with immediate effect, confirming radical career change
Rugby NewsWednesday, 16 August 2023 at 11:26
Stuart McInally, the long-serving hooker for Edinburgh, has reached the end of his rugby career as he was omitted from Scotland's 33-man World Cup squad, along with three other players.
At 33 years old, McInally, who led the national team during the 2019 Japan World Cup, had previously announced that he would retire after the upcoming autumn World Cup in France. His plan was to transition into a career as an airplane pilot. However, despite being part of the training squad this summer, he did not secure a spot in the final selection.
McInally's journey began in 2009 when he joined Edinburgh's academy, and he marked his professional debut against Munster in 2010. His dedication and commitment to the club led to an impressive 176 appearances for Edinburgh, with his latest game being a commanding victory over Ospreys this past Saturday.
McInally said: "It was really tough knowing this was the moment to move on. I always thought it would be really easy to retire because I've always known what I want to do after rugby - become a pilot - but stepping away from the club I love is massive and it's been a huge decision.
"However, I feel ready and this is such an exciting opportunity. I drive under a flight path every morning on my journey into BT Murrayfield and so often see planes landing at Edinburgh Airport.
"I start to think 'what is the pilot seeing', 'how are they adapting' - and that itself gets me excited for the next steps in my career.
"While I'm obviously sad to be moving on, this decision has really been 10 years in the making. I started flying back in 2013 and a lot of work has gone in to get to this point. I'm now massively excited to pursue a career as a commercial airline pilot."
5 rugby union stars who own pubs:
Read on to check out which former and current rugby stars currently own pubs:
1. Jack Nowell
Once the England and Exeter Chiefs winger decides to retire from rugby, he is bound to have a packed schedule. Besides his illustrious rugby career, he also serves as the co-owner of The Swordfish Inn, situated in his beloved hometown of Cornwall.
Nestled along the picturesque harbourfront, this pub has earned a cherished reputation among the locals, fishermen, artists, and tourists alike, spanning generations.
Its enduring appeal lies in its enchanting ruggedness, exuding a unique charm and atmosphere that has captivated patrons for as long as memory serves.
He is also a director of .
2. Gavin Henson
The former Wales star settled into his new life as the pub landlord of The Fox in St Brides Major, in Wales earlier this year. He explained the change had fallen into place well as his vision of running a pub had coincided with the end of him playing rugby.
3. Gordon D'Arcy
The exchequer on Exchequer Street counts as one of its owners the Ireland legend. The bar is, similarly to Lemon and Duke, on the upmarket end of the spectrum when it comes to the food and drink they serve.
4. Several Irish legends
The Bridge pub in Ballsbridge is part owned by several current and previous Irish rugby internationals, including Jamie Heaslip, Sean O’Brien, Dave and Rob Kearney. While you might not catch them behind the bar too much, the four are frequent visitors to their pub that they co-own with publican Noel Anderson.
5. Gareth Steenson
The Stand-Off, which is owned by the Exeter legend, will opened its doors at Portland House, Longbrook Street, after a major refurb in 2018. Steeno teamed up with Carl Rimmer, one of his former Exeter Chiefs playing colleagues, and recruited former Woodbury Park manager Joe Hammond to oversee the project.
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