Hot on the heels of Census Johnston hanging up his boots, former Manu Samoa halfback Kahn Fotuali’i retired from rugby on Saturday.

Like the tighthead prop Fotuali’i was a key cog in perhaps the best Samoan squads since the sport turned professional, peaking as the seventh ranked side in the world in 2012.

The 37-year-old made his international debut in 2010, starring with a man-of-the-match performance in a win over Japan and going on to make a further 34 test appearances until 2017.

Born and raised in Auckland, New Zealand Fotuali’i played for provinces Tasman and Hawke’s Bay, and also spent four seasons at the Crusaders in Super Rugby.

After playing for the Manu at the 2011 Rugby World Cup, he left New Zealand for Wales, spending three seasons at Ospreys and winning the Pro12 in his first year at the club.

In 2013 Fotuali’i signed for Northampton Saints, winning the English Premiership and European Challenge Cup double in his first season at the club.

After three years at the Saints he signed for Bath, before joining French club Montpellier for the 2019-20 Top 14 season, which was officially cancelled after 17 rounds this week due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fotuali’i went home to New Zealand to join his family when fixtures were suspended at the beginning of March, and shared a message of thanks to the club on their website:

“I regret that this season is over and having to end my career, but given what is happening around the world, it is better for me to stay with my family in New Zealand,” he said. 

“Montpellier is a beautiful city and its supporters have been great. I wish you good luck for the future.”