'That's all she wrote': Blues veteran retires from rugby with neck injury

Former Blues star Kurt Eklund announced his retirement from professional rugby after concerns were raised about ongoing neck issues. The hooker took to social media and released a statement revealing he had been advised to hang up the boots. "That’s all she wrote. I've been battling neck injuries for the past few years and I've been told it's in my best interest to step away from the game, so that's what I am going to do," he said. Eklund was due to move to Japan after signing a contract with the Yokohama Canon Eagles alongside fellow Blues player Stephen Perofeta, but never left New Zealand. Despite the 34-year-old's career being cut short, Eklund said he was proud of all he accomplished in the sport.