Western Force and Wallabies stalwart Nathan Sharpe will retire from professional rugby at the end of the upcoming Super Rugby campaign.
The 101 Test lock will be available for the Wallabies' four June fixtures against Scotland and Wales, however it is likely he's already played his last international.
Sharpe, the most capped Super Rugby player in history with 147 appearances, put an end to speculation he is set to finish his glittering career in Europe, confirming his last-ever game will be in Force colours.
Sportal understands the veteran originally intended to delay his announcement until later in the year, however constant speculation over his future forced his hand.
"I've had a wonderful time playing rugby, have seen some pretty special things over my time and cherished every single moment of it," Sharpe said.
"It's not the end right now, I still have some goals I want to achieve this season."
"My last game of professional rugby will be wearing the … Western Force jersey. It is an emotional time for me, it's one of those decisions you mull over and think 'are you going too early or too late' and I wasn’t really sure of that until recently."
"I've been incredibly lucky right through my career to have been involved with some great people and great teams."
"I've got one more shot at winning a title and I don't intend on fading away, I want to finish with my best Super Rugby season yet, that's the way I want to exit the game."
The veteran lock will pursue a career in the resource industry after hanging up the boots and will also work as a media commentator.
"The career opportunities being made available are amazing and will give me a completely new challenge to focus on after such a long time playing rugby," Sharpe said.
"I've got a keen interest in the resource sector and being in Perth has definitely allowed me to meet a lot of people in the industry."
"I also want to stay involved in the game and having enjoyed the media side of things while playing I'd like to explore that further."
Sharpe, who turns 34 next month, has played 77 games for the Force since joining as a foundation played in 2006.
The former Reds skipper made his Test debut in 2002 and featured in three Rugby World Cup campaigns.
Force coach Richard Graham praised Sharpe's contribution to the club: "In my time at the club Nathan has led from the front in his performances on the field and his desire for the club to be successful has established a strong platform for us to continue to build on."
"Nathan has made a clear decision about his future past this season and I have no doubt his commitment to the team, as well as his own personal standards, will ensure he plays to the very best of his ability in his final year."
"By giving us an early indication of his intentions Nathan has allowed me to plan and take action in regards to recruiting for 2013 and beyond. Having that knowledge now is a positive for us going forward."