Leinster and Ireland prop Michael Bent has announced that he'll be retiring from rugby at the end of the current season.

The New Zealand-native has amassed 155 appearances for the PRO14 champions since making his debut in 2012. He was also capped four times by Ireland.

Leinster head-coach Leo Cullen says Bent will go down as one of the "unsung heroes" at the province.

Bent won six league titles as well as the Challenge and Champions Cups during his time in Dublin and he'll aim to earn another Champions Cup medal next month.

"Firstly I'd like to express my gratitude for the support I’ve received throughout my time with Leinster. Leinster supporters are world class," the 34-year-old said about hanging up his boots.

"I’m aware that not everyone gets the opportunity to have nine years with a team especially not one the calibre of Leinster so for that in itself, I’m incredibly grateful. I’ve been lucky enough to play alongside and against some of the greats with a team that has achieved so much.

"My career has seen its share of ups and downs and I’m grateful for it all as it has led me to where I am today both professionally and within my life outside of rugby.

"I couldn’t have done this without the support of my wife, Celyse, my children Emme and Eli and my family. I’m looking forward to the start of our future back home in New Zealand on our family farm and hopefully I’ll be able to keep myself involved in the local rugby scene in some way.

"I’ll always consider Ireland my second home. It’s the birth place of my children and it holds so many memories for me and my family.

"It’s a unique season to be retiring on and I do hope before the boots are hung up for good that there might be supporters back in the stands. If not, it has been a privilege. Thank you."

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