Since joining Harlequins in 2009, Matt has made 30 appearances for the club. He was capped by England in 2007 against South Africa.

Announcing his decision, Matt Cairns said, "Rugby has been such a massive part of my life so the fact that my career has ended sooner than expected has been difficult to accept. While I will miss the camaraderie of the great players that I've played with, I have lots of happy memories. I would like to thank everyone that has helped me throughout my career especially Conor O'Shea and all the players and staff at Harlequins. The fact that my playing career is over is still sinking in and I'm still deciding what's best for my family and myself."

Harlequins Director of Rugby, Conor O'Shea said, "Matt has been a great servant not just to the club but also to the game of rugby. He has achieved so much during his playing career and will be missed both on and off the pitch. Retirement on medical grounds is difficult to come to terms with especially when it is unexpected.

"All of our players, staff and supporters wish Matt well," O'Shea continued, "we will support him during this transition from playing to whatever his new career will be. We wish him and his family well in the future."