Rugby: Somerville's retirement cut short

Greg Somerville. Photo / Getty Images

Former All Blacks prop Greg Somerville isn't quite yet ready to hang up the rugby boots after all.

Somerville announced the end of his illustrious 12-year career when Super rugby newcomers Melbourne completed their season with the wooden spoon in June, but the 33-year-old will play out one last swansong during the Rebels upcoming tour of the UK and Ireland.

The 66-cap veteran, who played his last test in 2008, was today named in a 30-man squad which leaves on Saturday for matches against Bath, Worcester and Leinster.

The two-week tour also signals the start of Damien Hill's reign as head coach - he replaces 1999 World Cup-winning Wallabies coach Rod Macqueen, who remains on the Rebels staff as director or rugby.

Four members of the Rebels roster are unavailable for the trip due to international commitments - backs Mark Gerrard and Nick Phipps are in the Wallabies squad, No 8 Gareth Delve is attempting to make the Wales World Cup squad while lock Adam Byrnes is with the Russian set-up.

Former Wallabies and Queensland midfielder Lloyd Johansson is one of seven non-contracted players attempting to impress during the trip.

Hill said the tour also offered an opportunity to farewell Somerville and former Wallabies halfback Sam Cordingley.

"Both these players have been invaluable to the club on the field and have been fantastic in guiding our young players," he said.

It is possible Somerville will remain with the Rebels in a coaching capacity next year as the franchise seek to improve on their 15th placing in 2011.

- NZPA