Cardiff Centre Halaholo Retires After 8-Year Spell
Cardiff centre Willis Halaholo has ended his professional rugby career after an 8-year spell with the Welsh region. The 36-year-old announced his retirement on social media, saying "the mind is still keen to carry on but I think the body has had enough".
What Happened?
Halaholo, who qualified for Wales under residency rules, won the last of his nine Wales caps in April 2022. He went on to play three times for Tonga. He began his career in New Zealand with Southland before spells with both Waikato and Hurricanes, where he won a Super Rugby title.
Why it Matters for Cardiff
Halaholo left the Arms Park at the end of the 2023-24 season to return to New Zealand with National Provincial Championship side Bay of Plenty. He plans to turn his attention to coaching.
What Comes Next?
League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 2nd in League One, 91 pts, 27W-10D-9L from 46 games, recent form LWWWD. Goals this season: 90 scored, 50 conceded (+40 goal difference). Title race: 12 points behind leaders Lincoln. Next fixture: vs Millwall (at home, 2026-12-26).
