'One of the best' Cornish Pirates - Stevens retires

Long-serving Cornish Pirates forward John Stevens has announced his retirement from professional rugby union.

The 31-year-old former captain has spent the past 13 seasons at the Penzance-based Champ club.

Stevens, the son of former British Lions and England forward Brian 'Stack' Stevens, played 152 times for the club, scoring 23 tries.

The back row played five times at the end of the season having missed 18 months after suffering a serious knee ligament injury on the opening day of the 2024-25 season.

"It has always been a privilege to be able to play professional sport in the place I call home and to captain this team," Stevens told the club website, external.

"For that I am and always will be very grateful.

"I also want to thank everyone who helped and supported me in my return from injury over the last few seasons and for the support towards the testimonial."

The former academy player at Exeter moved to Pirates in the summer of 2013.

He led the club to their highest-ever league finish when they ended the 2023-24 season in second place in the Championship, seven points behind winners Ealing.

"He wasn't the biggest when we first set eyes on him," joint head coach Gavin Cattle said.

"Alan Paver and myself were still players back then, but as a coach to see him grow into a great captain that leads from the front has been a joy to watch.

"I don't say this lightly but I feel he's one of the best we have ever had.

"Injuries hampered his progress, but that's rugby and to see him overcome an horrific injury to make his 150th appearance sums up what he's about.

"John has been inspirational and he has put one hell of a shift in for this club."