Wales international Jonathan Thomas announced his retirement from professional rugby union on Tuesday because of epilepsy by saying his fellow players needed "more educating about the warning signs" of head injuries.

The 32-year's exit came just days before the start of the 2015 World Cup in England, with the debate concerning head impacts and concussion dominating rugby union's agenda in recent months.

Thomas has been playing most recently for English Premiership side Worcester.

In a statement, the Midlands club said Thomas was diagnosed with epilepsy last year "which is thought to be from multiple head traumas and has led to a degree of brain injury".

A back-row forward, Thomas often took the field wearing a scrum cap but his case is a reminder of the limits of head protection.

Thomas, who won 67 caps for Wales from 2003-2011 and appeared in two World Cups, said: "I've learnt a huge amount during the last few months about head trauma, seizures and epilepsy, and it would be great if I could help out in some way.

"At the elite level of the game, I think the unions and medical departments of clubs do a great job and have a great understanding, but I still think it's the players who need more educating about the warning signs and getting out of that 'digging in' mentality."

- 'Better understanding' -

Nevertheless Thomas added: "I must stress, however, in no way would I discourage anyone from playing the game that has given me so much.

"Also in no way do I regret anything about my rugby career, and I wouldn't change a thing.

"In regards to the immediate future, I'm going to take some time out but have no doubt I'll stay involved with the game in some capacity.

"I would also like to get involved with charity work specifically related to head injury and help people gain a better understanding of what trauma can cause and how to deal with it."

Worcester high performance director Nick Johnston added: "We've sought the best medical opinion in the country in order to try and enable Jonathan to prolong his career.

"But unfortunately, on the advice of consultants, he has been advised to retire from professional rugby."

Thomas featured in two Six Nations Grand Slam campaigns with Wales and spent 10 years with Welsh regional side the Ospreys before moving to Worcester in 2013.

"I've done everything in my power to keep playing," Thomas said.

"However, there comes a point when you realise you need to listen to medical experts and also do what's best for your well-being.

"I am keen to stress there are many different types of epilepsy, and I'm fortunate to only suffer from it in a mild way compared to some.

"Naturally though, it has proved too difficult to continue as a professional athlete.

"I have been working closely with my medical team and consultant for many months, and hoped this was something that could be managed in order for me to continue playing, but sadly this isn't the case."
Source: AFP