FORMER Scotland rugby star Chris Cusiter has announced he is to quit the game at the age of 33 to sell Scotch Whisky in Los Angeles.
The Sale Sharks scrum-half, who won 70 caps and also played for Glasgow Warriors, Border Reivers and French outfit Perpignan, says his new business will specialise in the sale of Scotland’s national tipple along with craft beers, fine wines and spirits.
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Cusiter said his move to the US will allow him to pursue a longstanding interest. He added: “I’ve been fascinated by the Scotch Whisky industry for the past few years and firmly believe that it is Scotland’s finest and greatest export and something to be very proud of.
“I am excited to be involved with a product that I am so passionate about.
“We will be building an alcohol retail business based in Los Angeles – specialising in craft beer, fine wine and craft spirits with a big focus on Scotch whisky.”
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Cusiter, who was first capped in 2004, was a part of the wider Scotland squad that prepared for last year’s Rugby World Cup. But, having asked permission to stay with his young family rather go to the training camp in the Pyrenees, he always knew he would only be selected for the tournament itself if any of the other No 9s were injured.
One of the most widely respected players of his generation, Cusiter made more club appearances for Glasgow Warriors than anyone else.
In a statement, Cusiter added: “As far as my rugby career goes, I considered myself privileged to receive a Scotland ‘A’ cap in 2002,” he said. “If it had ended there at that point then I would have been happy.
“I could never have imagined all the experiences I would be able to have over the next 14 years through rugby - the places I visited, the stadiums I played in, the people I met and the great friends I made.”
“Playing for Scotland 70 times was more than I could have dreamed. Touring New Zealand with the British and Irish Lions will be with me forever.”
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