Renowned Welsh rugby player, Josh Turnbull, has officially announced his retirement from the sport after an impressive career spanning 16 years. Hailing from Haverfordwest but raised in Newcastle Emlyn, Turnbull has accumulated a total of 334 top-level games for Scarlets and Cardiff Rugby. The 36-year-old has now transitioned to a coaching role at the Cardiff Rugby academy.
Having undergone training at Newcastle Emlyn and played for Llandovery RFC and Llanelli RFC, Turnbull has solidified his position as a back row specialist with 11 caps for Wales. He played a pivotal role in Cardiff’s triumph in the 2018 European Challenge Cup and was honoured with the Peter Thomas Player of the Season award in 2021-22.
In a formal statement, Turnbull expressed the emotional challenge of his decision to retire but emphasized that it is the correct choice for himself and his family. He found tremendous motivation in achieving 200 appearances for Cardiff and fondly reminisced about the support he received from family and friends during his 200th appearance at the Arms Park. Grateful for his journey, Turnbull eagerly looks forward to the next chapter in his life as a coach, particularly in nurturing the wealth of emerging talent in the region.
Despite encountering injuries in recent times, Turnbull consistently delivered outstanding performances. He was close to breaking the record for the United Rugby Championship’s all-time appearance charts, trailing only behind John Muldoon. Drawing from his coaching experience at Newcastle Emlyn and Scarlets U18, Turnbull now serves as the defence and lineout coach at Carmarthen Quins.
Turnbull’s retirement has elicited commendation from Cardiff Rugby, who lauded him as an “absolute warrior” for his contributions to the team. As he embarks on this new coaching journey, there is no doubt that his wealth of experience and passion for the sport will continue to have a significant impact on future generations of rugby players.
In summary, Josh Turnbull’s retirement stands as a testament to the lasting impression he has made on the world of rugby. His unwavering dedication, resilience, and remarkable talent have rightfully secured him a place among the legends of the sport, and his transition into coaching is poised to inspire and shape the next generation of rugby stars.