Phillips set for farewell

WALES legend Mike Phillips admits that he doesn’t know how he’ll be feeling when his rugby career ends later today.

The 34-year-old is set to call time on his playing life in Sale Sharks’ Premiership finale with Bath this afternoon.

During his 16-year spell in professional rugby, Phillips became the most-capped scrum-half in Welsh history, making 94 appearances as well as featuring in five British & Irish Lions tests across two tours.

He was a pivotal part of the Wales teams who won the Grand Slam in 2008 and 2012, also taking the Six Nations title in 2013.

And despite being excited ahead of the game, Phillips admits he doesn’t know how he’ll feel once the final whistle is blown on his career.

“There’s mixed emotions I guess,” said Phillips. “I just want to play well at the weekend. It’s been a long career and it’s the right time for me and my body.

“I’ve got a lot of family and friends coming up so it’ll be nice have them there. I’m not sure how I’ll be feeling but I’m just looking forward to the next chapter.”

Having been involved in professional sport for his entire adult life, Phillips ensures that relaxing and reflecting will be high up on his agenda from this evening onwards.

“Rugby’s relentless, it’s been 15-16 years now of training and pressure so it will be nice to release that valve, reflect and see some family and friends.”