George Nott will retire in December – calling time on a decade long career to focus on life after rugby.

The second-row joined Cardiff Rugby ahead of the 2025-26 season and has made 19 first team appearances for the Blue & Blacks.

But he will hang his boots up at the end of next month to take up an opportunity in medical sales. 

Nott will remain available for fixtures throughout December, and he hopes to go out on a high. 

He said: “I would like to thank everyone at Cardiff for welcoming me and allowing me the privilege of pulling on the jersey. It has been an incredible end to my career and it’s been a really difficult decision to leave the club in what is such a special and historic year. 

“In a short space of time I’ve made some great memories, and I look forward to watching the team with my family.

“I would particularly like to thank Corniel for his understanding and support. He has always brough the value of family alive through his actions and his lack of hesitation in supporting my decision is a clear demonstration of this. 

“I wish the club all the best for their future endeavours on and off the pitch, Cardiff will always be a special chapter in our family’s life that we will look back on fondly.

“It goes without saying that I will continue to give my all each and every day in December, and hope to go out on a real high.”

The Bodelwyddan-born lock was a product of the Sale Sharks academy and made 41 appearances for the English club after making his first team debut in 2017.

Nott moved to London Irish in 2019, where he worked closely with Corniel van Zyl and spent three seasons before moving to the Dragons. 

He enjoyed three seasons at Rodney Parade and was a key figure for the Men of Gwent before switching to the Welsh capital. 

A top man, a top professional and a very good rugby player.

Corniel van Zyl has paid tribute to the second-row and has revealed the club are active in the market to recruit a replacement. 

He said: “I’ve had the pleasure of knowing and coaching George for some time now, from London Irish to here at Cardiff. He is a top man, a top professional and a very good rugby player.

“He cares about everything and everyone inside and outside the club, and does a huge amount of charitable work, he’s just a really good person and role model in the environment.

“Transitioning from rugby to the real world is a challenge for any player but with this opportunity, it was really something for George to consider. He had a great run of games for us last year but has struggled with injuries this season which makes the decision easier. 

“He leaves with our full blessing, and we wish him all the very best for the future. He will be with until Christmas so hopefully we can give him a good send off, while we will be looking to strengthen in the position.”