John Turnbull has retired from rugby with immediate effect, bringing an end to his 17-year career.

The 36-year-old confirmed in a statement with Cardiff Rugby that his 200th appearance for the region against Leinster is to be his last.

Turnbull began his career with Llanelli RFC in 2006 and went on to play for Scarlets, Llandovery RFC, and Cardiff.

A versatile player capable of playing lock, blindside flanker, or number 8, Turnbull played 13 times for Wales over eleven years.

Only Connacht’s John Muldoon made more appearances than his 245 in the United Rugby Championship.

Overall, the former Wales international made 334 top-flight appearances, as well as caps for Wales at under-18s, 19s, 20s, and sevens.

Turnbull made his Wales debut against Scotland in 2011 and was in and out of squads under Warren Gatland. He was recalled by Wayne Pivac for what proved to be his last Test appearance in 2021.

He played a key role as Cardiff lifted the 2018 European Challenge Cup and also won Cardiff’s Player of the Season award in 2021-22.

“It’s been a difficult decision to call time on my career, which has gone in the blink of an eye, but I am comfortable it is the right one for myself and my family,” Turnbull reflected.

“Reaching 200 appearances for Cardiff has been a huge motivator for me, and I was honoured to do that a few weeks ago at the Arms Park with so many friends and family in attendance.

“Rugby has given me so much – I have traveled the world, made incredible friends, and have so many great memories from my time both at Cardiff and the Scarlets.

“I am enormously grateful to everyone who has played a part in my journey, whether teachers, coaches, backroom staff, supporters, and of course my family.”

Turnbull’s next move is into a coaching position with Cardiff’s academy.

“With close to 350 games of professional experience under my belt, I am now looking forward to the next chapter in my career, and I am very grateful to Cardiff for giving me an opportunity to continue coaching within the academy set-up,” he added.

“There is so much talent coming through in this region; you only need to look at the lads who have come through this year to see that, and I’m excited to pass on my experience.”

Cardiff head coach Matt Sherratt said: “Josh has been a great servant to Cardiff both on and off the pitch and to play 334 competitive games in the professional era is no mean feat.

“He is a player who continually put his body on the line for the team and gave his absolute all.

“He has been a great professional and role model to our young players in terms of his commitment, diligence, work-rate, and selflessness.”