Retiring rugby stars: 5 stars who could have played their final game

If the season was cancelled it would have drastic implications on the future of the game and all 12 clubs may not return.

But more immediately, it could also rob a number of star off-contract players the send-off they deserve.

The 34-year-old Springbok will finish his career this season as one of the longest-serving players in Bath’s squad, having been with the club for nine seasons in what has been an incredible domestic and international career. With 76 Test l caps for South Africa under his belt, the back-row has enjoyed an illustrious career spanning over a decade. Hopefully, he gets the send off he deserves.

The 35-year-old prop earned 47 caps for New Zealand, winning the World Cup in 2011 and 2015. He plays with his younger brother, Owen Franks, at Northampton. The pair also played together for the All Blacks. You'd hope he'd get to line up with his brother on the pitch one final time.

In February, the Sale hooker confirmed he will retire from professional rugby union at the end of the season. The 33-year-old will call time on a 16-year career in which he also played for Leeds Tykes, Wasps and Bath. Webber, who was capped 16 times by England, will take up a coaching role with Championship side, Jersey.

The 33-year-old announced on in February that he would leave Twickenham Stoop at the end of the season. The flanker is set to join Rugby United New York at the end of the season, but after making over 250 appearances for the London club since his debut in 2005, and after captaining them to their greatest victories, he may not go out in a blaze of glory.

The England international and four-time Premiership winner will join Pat Lam’s backroom team as academy transition coach in a dual role with immediate effect. Crane joined Bristol in 2016 and during his time so far at Ashton Gate has co-captained the team to a promotion and a highest top flight finish in 12 years.