Cloud Nine

"Playing rugby at the highest level has been the focus of my life for as long as I can remember. I have enjoyed many truly amazing and humbling moments, suffered my share of struggles but also had a career I can always be proud of. All the while, having my family and loved ones on this journey with me through the highs and lows has been very special. I have made friends for life with so many shared experiences that I'll cherish. I cannot wait for fans - and readers - to discover everything there is to know about what wearing the No.9 jersey has meant to me, how the journey has gone so far - and what comes next..."

No matter how these things are judged; longevity, impact or silverware, Conor Murray has more than earned his place in the pantheon of Irish rugby gods.

Both at Thomond Park and on the international stage, Murray has stood out even whilst surrounded by other Ireland and Munster names who will themselves go down in history.

As a Munster player, Murray has two United Rugby Championship titles to his name and his performances since his debut in 2010 saw Murray also selected in the World Rugby Men's 15 Team of the Decade, 2010-2019.

First capped for his country all the way back in 2011 with his debut showing against France, the Munster scrum-half has also been at the heart of Ireland's astonishing success in the years since.

With 5 Six Nations titles including 2 Grand Slams and well over 100 caps for Ireland - as well as being a 3-time tourist with the British & Irish Lions amassing 8 test caps along the way - Murray has seen it all, played them all, fought back from injury, enjoying huge victories and suffering devastating losses. And now, having announced he is retiring from international rugby, he is telling his own unique story in his own unique way.

A hugely respected and revered figure across the world of rugby, and Irish sport in particular, Murray is leaving no stone unturned as he describes the ups and downs, the mental and physical challenges and the fun he had during a rugby career that will forever be regarded as competitive and captivating.