‘Ikale Tahi veteran loose forward Maama Molitika has retired from professional at the age of 45. He leaves his English club Ampthill after seven seasons.

Molitika’s rugby careers spans 23 years, during which he played for various clubs in the northern hemisphere including the Harlequins and the Cardiff Blues. He debuted for the ‘Ikale Tahi in 1997 and was a member of the successful 2007 Rugby World Cup team. In 2008, he was selected to play for the Barbarians.

“I’ve been at Ampthill for seven seasons, and seen the club move from National 2 status to Championship and I will continue to track its performance and follow and support the club every step of the way”, said Molitika in a statement published the Ampthill rugby website this month.

“My professional rugby career has spanned over 21 years and I am lucky to have experienced all the things I have, from playing for my country at International level to being selected for the Barbarians, through to playing for each and every club I have. I am now moving onto the next chapter which will hopefully include me staying within the game and allowing me to coach others using my experience and knowledge.”