Rugby stars react as 49-Test Wallaby Andrew Kellaway announces retirement

49-Test Wallabies winger Andrew Kellaway has called time on a 12-year professional career that included stints both in Australia and abroad, with several frontline Super Rugby Pacific players reacting to the announcement on social media.

Kellaway shared a post on Instagram this week, thanking others for their support and those who had played a part in the journey. The 30-year-old played at Super Rugby level for the Melbourne Rebels and NSW Waratahs, and spent time in New Zealand, Japan and England.

Sonny Bill Williams played alongside Kellaway at provincial side Counties Manukau, before the Australian returned to Super Rugby with the Rebels. Kellaway also enjoyed spells with English side Northampton Saints at Green Rockets Tokatsu in Japan.

Kellaway became Wallaby number 943 after suiting up at Test level for the first time against Six Nations outfit France in July 2021. The utility back last played for the Wallabies on November 16, 2025, after coming off the bench against Ireland in Dublin.

“Closing the curtain on 12 incredible years,” Kellaway wrote on social media. “Special people, special places and lots to remember.

“Big thank you to everyone who supported along the way and those that played a part. It’s been real.”

All Blacks halfback Cam Roigard, Wallabies winger Max Jorgensen, England’s George Furbank and the official Super Rugby Pacific social media page all commented on the post, congratulating Kellaway on his illustrious career.

Former NRL star Christian Welch, 95-Test Wallaby Kurtley Beale, former Wallabies fly-half Quade Cooper, former All Blacks halfback TJ Perenara, and multiple current Australian internationals also commented.

Kellaway came through ranks with the Australia U20 side, before debuting for the Tahs on April 2, 2016, against the Rebels. The utility was part of the Wallabies leadership group at the 2023 Rugby World Cup and he recently played for the Barbarians against the Springboks and Wales.