"But I'd been in this position before, had an operation on it in January and with the help of the Munster medical team and fitness coaches I got back into contention for selection for the end of the season games.

"However, I took another knock (pec) in that game and soon after accepted what the medics were telling me and I've decided to call it a day.'

Sheehan played 29 times for Ireland and 163 times for his province.

"It hard to believe I've been involved with Munster for 14 years," he said. "They've been great years. I've enjoyed that time immensely and would like to thank all those involved, at Munster and national level, coaches, managers, medics, fitness people for the role they've played in my career.

"My thanks also to my family who played such an important role, their support, particularly in difficult times was so important to me".