All Blacks, Chiefs and Waikato lock Keith Robinson has today announced his retirement from all rugby.

Robinson, 30, today said that his left knee could not sustain any more rugby campaigns.

“The decision to retire was an easy one because of the injury, but the hard part will be getting used to the fact I won’t be playing rugby again.

“I’d love to keep playing, but sadly injury has put a stop to that. I’m at the stage now with my knee that I would not be able to be managed through a campaign.

“I’ve had some great moments in my career. Every debut match for the teams I have been part of are special memories for me, and there have been some other great games.”

Robinson said special matches included his All Blacks debut in 2002, playing in this year’s Rugby World Cup, Waikato winning the 2006 Air New Zealand Cup final, Waikato beating Canterbury in a high-scoring game in 2002 and the Chiefs beating the Crusaders in the final round of the Super 14 this year.

Robinson says he will now concentrate on his gym business in Te Aroha but hasn’t ruled out getting involved in rugby in some form in the future.

New Zealand Rugby Union Deputy Chief Executive Steve Tew said: “Keith has shown true grit and determination throughout his career and the way he returned from serious injury showed the real character of the man. He played the game with real fire and passion and he will be missed by rugby fans the world over. We wish him all the best for the future.”

Waikato Rugby Union Chief Executive Graham Bowen said: “Robinson was a crowd favourite, well liked by his team mates and his presence on the rugby field will be missed by his supporters. It is a great shame injury has put an end to such a successful career.”

Chiefs franchise Chief Executive Gary Dawson said: “Robinson showed great work ethic on and off the field in his time with the Chiefs and Waikato Rugby. He will be remembered by all as one of the great rugby players to come out of this region. He represented his province, franchise and country with distinction.”

Te Aroha-born Robinson made his All Blacks debut in November 2002 against England. He played a total of 12 Test matches for New Zealand.

At provincial level, Robinson played 20 games for Thames Valley, 20 for Taranaki, and put on the Mooloo jersey 29 times since his Waikato debut in August 2002.

For his Super 14 franchise, the Chiefs, he played a total of 42 games.