FORMER Scotland captain Kelly Brown has announced his retirement from rugby at the age of 34.

The back-rower scored a try on his international debut in June 2005 against Romania and went on to rack up 64 caps for his country, captaining the national team on 11 occasions. 

The Saracens flanker released a statement on his Twitter account on Tuesday confirming that he had decided to hang up his boots as he moves into a coaching role with the European champions.

Brown also represented Melrose, Border Reivers and Glasgow Warriors during a 13-year playing career.

The post read: "I always knew this day would come and it seems like only yesterday I was pulling on the black and yellow of Melrose RFC as an 18-year-old student. Since then I've been hugely fortunate to play the game I love at the highest level for the Border Reivers, Glasgow Warriors, Saracens and Scotland.

"Along the way, I've met some great people who I can now call friends for life. I have played for four clubs who I care deeply about and to have been able to captain my country is an honour that I'll always cherish.

"I'd like to put on record my thanks to some very important people who have helped me along the way. Firstly, all my coaches, teammates and support staff from school through to Saracens for their unwavering support and inspiration.

"Secondly, my Mum, Dad and family who taught me so much in not only the game but the values of life. Finally, and most importantly, my wife Emily and daughters Amber and Leena for all their love, patience and affection - I truly believe I wouldn't have enjoyed the career I have done without them. 

"I'm forever grateful to be ending my career at a fantastic club like Saracens. Their support for my family and me has been unstinting and I'm extremely excited to be moving into a new role within the club's academy next season.

"I've been lucky to have been able to live my dream for 13 years and now I'm priveleged to be able to help others do the same."