Saracens confirm international star will retire at the end of the season

The winger, who has been at the forefront of the game for well over a decade will hang up his boots after a stellar career both domestically and internationally.

The 35-year-old began his career in New Zealand where he was born, making his Canterbury debut at the age of just 17, and then the Crusaders at 19.

He represented New Zealand at Under 19s and Under 20s level, as well as the Maori All Blacks before making the move to the Northern Hemisphere.

He joined Glasgow Warriors in 2012 and was quickly recognised on the international front, making his Scotland debut in 2013 and also being called up to the victorious British and Irish Lions Tour of Australia in the same year.

His Scotland carneer resulted in 53 caps, including both the 2015 and 2019 Rugby World Cups.

Joining Saracens from London Irish in 2016, he has played 147 times for the Men in Black and won three Premiership titles and two European crowns during his eight year spell at StoneX Stadium.

His try in the 2019 Final against Leinster was a crucial moment as Sarries secured their third European title at St James’ Park.

Maitland, who will be looking to sign off his trophy-filled career with another Premiership title had these words for everyone at Saracens.

“Saracens is such a special place and I cannot thank everyone enough. It is a place I will always treasure and I can’t wait to watch as a fan for years to come.

Thanks to everyone who has contributed to making my career so enjoyable from start to finish.”

Director of Rugby Mark McCall praised Maitland’s influence in North London.

“We feel very fortunate to have shared the last eight years with Sean. He has been an outstanding competitor on the field and a brilliant team mate off it.

Sean is loyal, humble, fun and in his own quiet way has played a key role in driving the values we hold dear. He is respected by everyone and will be greatly missed by us all.

We would like to thank him for his outstanding contribution to the club and wish him, Nava, Lucy, Lilly and Louis all the best for the future."

10. Owen Farrell - £1.46 million ($2 million)
Saracens are making waves in the Premiership, and Owen Farrell, their skipper, is reaping the rewards. The bulk of his net worth, a cool £1.46 million, flows directly from his dedication to Saracens.

9. Maro Itoje - £1.46 million ($2 million)
Teammate to Farrell both at England and Saracens, Maro Itoje is on a trajectory to become one of rugby's highest earners. His salary, comparable to the national skipper's, showcases his potential.

8. Charles Piutau - £1.85 million ($2.5 million)
Former All Blacks player Charles Piutau's move to Bristol Bears came with an eyewatering salary. The club's investment in him during his five seasons speaks volumes about his impact.

7. Handré Pollard - £1.94 million ($2.7 million)
The lone South African in the top ten, Handré Pollard, made his mark when he left the Bulls for Montpellier. Rumored to be earning around R15 million per season at Leicester Tigers, Pollard is a financial force.

6. Beau Ryan - £7.72 million ($10 million)
Transitioning from Rugby League to a TV Presenter, Beau Ryan's career has been highly lucrative. With rumors swirling around a net worth close to R200 million, Ryan's financial success is no joke.

5. Mike Tindall - £9.98 million ($13 million)
A member of the 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning squad, Mike Tindall has had his fair share of off-field challenges. Despite legal troubles, his net worth stands at an impressive £9.98 million.

4. Jonny Wilkinson - £20.9 million ($29 million)
Jonny Wilkinson's iconic Rugby World Cup-winning drop goal in 2003 has translated into substantial wealth. As the second-richest Rugby World Cup winner, Wilkinson's financial success is a testament to his on-field brilliance.

3. Sonny Bill Williams - £21.8 million ($30 million)
A dual-sport star in Union and League, Sonny Bill Williams, made waves in endorsements and earned well during his stint in France. His net worth stands at an impressive £21.8 million.

2. Sir Bill Gammell - £38.8 million ($50 million)
Former Scottish rugby player turned businessman, Sir Bill Gammell, is a knight, philanthropist, and a friend to political leaders. With a net worth exceeding £38.8 million, Gammell is poised for success even beyond the rugby pitch.

1. Simon McDowell - £39.3 million ($54 million)
Refereeing at two Rugby World Cups, Simon McDowell's journey from player to referee has been financially rewarding. His net worth, driven primarily by his chemical company Kilwaughter, exceeds an impressive £39.3 million.

You have five minutes to name every club to have played in the Gallagher Premiership, all 28 of them, since the division was established back in 1987.

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