‘I might as well retire in my brother’s shadow too’

Alex Waller of the Northampton Saints noted that since he and his brother announced their retirement, they had received “quite a humbling response”.

The statement that the 34-year-old would hang up his boots was made on Tuesday. His brother Ethan, 31, made the same declaration the following day.

They have made 494 appearances for the team between them, with Alex holding the record with 370 in 15 years.

Having “spent my career in his shadow, so I thought I might as well retire in it too,” remarked Ethan Waller.

“Mum with a rug on Instagram”
The brothers admitted to being unsure of their mother Sue’s plans for the upcoming season to BBC Radio Northampton.

Her ardent support of her sons has earned her a reputation among the players and spectators alike.

“She’ll have to change her Instagram account handle to ‘ex-rugby mum’ we might have to club together to buy her a season ticket to [Franklin’s] Gardens,” Alex stated.

Both Alex and Ethan say they will miss running out at some of the biggest stadiums and the adrenaline that brings with it.

“I’ll miss the passion of the fans, and the European away trips which usually end up with a good night out” remarked Ethan.

Alex added: “We’ve both played a lot of rugby, we’ve got a lot of adrenaline under our belts. It’s time for a quieter life.”