One of Australia’s most respected leaders has announced his shock retirement from professional rugby with immediate effect.

David Porecki, 32, was part of the Wallabies’ squad for the recent British & Irish Lions series and bows out after a remarkable and unconventional journey through the game – one that took him from Sydney club rugby to the UK and back, before eventually leading the Wallabies on the world stage.

Your 88th Wallabies captain has called time on his professional career, hanging up the boots with immediate effect.

Thanks for everything, #952 🫡

Find out more – https://t.co/TTPBVng7ZK#Wallabies pic.twitter.com/2U6lfZ1QCt

— Wallabies (@wallabies) August 5, 2025

The Waratahs hooker made his Wallabies debut in 2022 against England and quickly became a mainstay in the side, earning 21 Test caps and captaining Australia during the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.

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Porecki’s final match in Wallaby gold came against the Lions at the MCG, before a heel injury ruled him out of the third Lions Test in Sydney.

“To wear the Wallaby gold and Waratahs blue was a dream of mine as a boy growing up in Manly and to be able to say I did both is something I’m incredibly proud of,” Porecki said in a heartfelt statement.

“Rugby has given me so much to be thankful for… but it feels like the right time for me to turn the page and start a new chapter.”

Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt praised Porecki’s quiet leadership.

“Porky is the ultimate professional and quiet achiever. He prefers to lead by example, and he’s done that really well.”

Waratahs coach Dan McKellar added: “He’s never been the biggest hooker going around, but he’s always played well above his weight. He’ll be sadly missed throughout the walls of the Waratahs.”

Porecki finishes his career with 21 Tests, a Rugby World Cup captaincy, and the admiration of teammates and fans alike.

Photo: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images