World Cup-winning Springbok loose forward Bobby Skinstad has announced his retirement from rugby with immediate effect in order to pursue business interests.

The Springboks' 50th captain, Skinstad, who made a remarkable comeback this year by playing for the Sharks in the Super 14 and going on to earn a call-up to the World Cup squad, will not be available to the national side for their year-end tour to Wales and England later this month.

"When I met with [coach] Jake White in London around this time a year ago and we spoke about the possibility of me returning to challenge for a World Cup place I dreamed of it ending with a World Cup triumph, but at the time it was just a dream," he said.

"Today I leave the game on my terms and with the most wonderful memory of experiencing the thrill of a winning World Cup campaign. I often said to people this year that I felt the stars were aligned and it was South African rugby's year.

"I never doubted my desire to want to play for the Springboks again, but knew it was a privilege that had to be earned and at this time I want to say a special thanks to the coaches, conditioning staff and players at the Sharks who embraced my presence and reaffirmed my belief that nothing is impossible.''

Sporting Life / Eurosport