Harlequins stalwart Chisholm retires at 31

Harlequins back row James Chisholm has retired from playing aged 31 because of injury.

Chisholm said his recovery from the ruptured Achilles he suffered in January 2025 had been “a bit of an uphill battle” and “unfortunately my body just can’t get there”.

“I still have the want to play and was really looking forward to this season and gave pre-season my all. We tried everything but I just couldn’t get there,” he added.

“I feel okay about it all and I am at peace with the decision now.”

Chisholm spent his entire professional career with Quins, scoring 21 tries in 164 appearances and winning the Prem title with the club in 2021.

Head coach Jason Gilmore said: “He’s been a formidable player on the pitch and a great character off it too.

“He’s a team-first man who has been so good for our environment, even through the tough moments he has experienced.

“Being a one-club man is rare these days too, so to have played his whole career as a Harlequin is a fantastic achievement.

“It’s disappointing for him, and us, that his time representing the club on the pitch has come to a premature end.

“We’re committed to supporting him through the next steps of his career, whatever that may be.”