ANDREW FENBY has retired from professional rugby, his club London Irish have announced.
The 30-year-old winger, whose 28 tries made him a firm favourite with Exiles fans, has quit the game to pursue a career in accountancy.
Fenby, who joined Irish from Pro 12 side Scarlets in 2013, making 61 appearances, is a qualified chartered accountant and has his sights set on a career in the City (of London).
“I have really enjoyed my time with London Irish and it is with a heavy heart that I have come to make this decision and pursue a new opportunity,” said Fenby, who also turned out for National League 1 side Blaydon, Llanelli and Newcastle Falcons during a 12-season career.
“London Irish have fantastic facilities and there is an infrastructure in place that should allow the club to make an immediate return to the Aviva Premiership and realise its ambitions in years to come.”
Fenby made an immediate impact with Irish, topping the try scoring charts for the 2013/14 season, while during the following campaign his pace, power and elusive running was a key factor as the side reached the quarter-finals of the European Challenge Cup.
@LiRFC can confirm @AndrewFenby has called time on his playing career. We wish him every success for the future. pic.twitter.com/16pu5632n1
— London Irish (@londonirish) May 11, 2016
Welshman Fenby, overall, dabbed down 126 times in a 214-game professional career.
The Newcastle University graduate becomes the second player this week to announce his is leaving the club following relegation from the Aviva Premiership.
It was announced on Monday popular prop Halani Aulika is to join Sale Sharks for the 2016/17 season.
“Andrew has been a great professional throughout his time with the club and we would like to send our best wishes to him and his family,” said Glenn Delaney, head of rugby operations.
“He has a fantastic opportunity in the City and I’m sure he will have a successful career post rugby.”