Bermuda could be last game, says Ireland legend

Irish rugby legend Geordan Murphy said his appearance for a Bermuda Select XV could be his final game.

The Leicester full-back will retire from professional rugby at the end of the season aged 35 after an illustrious  career at club and international level.

Murphy will train and captain the Bermuda XV, managed by former England captain and World Cup winner Lewis Moody, when they take on Saracens in a fundraising match at the National Sports Centre on May 31.

Murphy’s knee has been troubling him for some time and, while he hopes it’s not, he admits Bermuda could be his definitive swansong as he prepares to take up the position of assistant manager at Leicester next season.

He told the Bermuda Sun: “I’m hoping to play some more rugby down the line , not for Leicester. But potentially this could be my last ever game, we’ll see how it goes.”

He added: “I am sure it’s going to be good fun. I’m looking forward to it. I’ve been once before to Bermuda to Lewis Moody’s wedding. 

“I’m going to take the training on the Thursday. 

“It will be a light session, keep it simple, put some patterns in play – that’s the plan.

“It’s huge for the local players. I’m from a small place myself so the opportunity to play in a big game against quality international players is always gratefully received.

“It will be a good opportunity
 for me to do a bit of coaching, it will be a nice relaxed environment, they can ask me questions and pick my brains.

“I’ve been struggling a bit with my knee so I’m going to play some part in the game but not the whole 80 [minutes].”

His injury means there will be no glorious Aviva Premiership final send-off when Leicester go up against Northampton at Twickenham on May 25.

He said: “Obviously, I’m disappointed I’m not going to be able to play in the final. 

“But there’s no room for sentiment at Leicesder. Unfortunately we don’t have that luxury when it means getting some silverware for the club.” n