Hard-nosed Wallaby Pat McCabe could become only the second player to use the Rugby Union Players' Association's career-ending income-protection policy if he lodges a claim after suffering a cruel third broken neck.
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McCabe made the tough call to retire on Thursday, ending his ACT Brumbies and Wallabies career after 66 Super Rugby caps and 24 Tests for Australia.
Australian Rugby Union chief executive Bill Pulver hopes to find a way to keep the 26-year-old involved in rugby after an abrupt end to his playing days.
McCabe has broken his neck three times since November 2012, all while playing for the Wallabies, and he will never play again, despite having a year left on his contract.
The Brumbies and the ARU will pay out the last year of his deal, but McCabe could also call on RUPA's insurance policy, which is available to all players and would entitle him to 75 per cent of what he would have earned in 2016 and 2017.
The career-ending income protection policy has only been in place for the past two years, and it requires financial commitment by the ARU and Australian rugby players.
McCabe has not lodged a claim, as he comes to grips with the fact his career is over. He will work with the Brumbies next season in an off-field role, which could include some coaching. He is also finishing a law and commerce degree.
Tributes began to flow on Thursday for the man many regard as the toughest player they have ever seen. McCabe built his career on grit, not flair, and is one of the most respected players in world rugby because of his genuine nature, work ethic and uncompromising commitment to improvement.
Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie said McCabe was "one of the smartest and most dedicated" players he had coached. Brumbies mentor Stephen Larkham said: "There is no one braver than Patty, both in terms of injuries and the way he plays the game. "You want players like Patty; you want every one of your team members to be a bit like Patty."
Brumbies great George Gregan said McCabe was the ultimate team man. "He was in the prime of his career. His best was ahead of him and he was the ultimate team man," he said. "It didn't matter where he was, or what he was doing, he did everything he could. That's how he'll be remembered."
Pulver said McCabe had made the right decision to retire. "Rugby's important but it's not that important. We wish him well and I sincerely hope he remains close to our game," he said.
"He's a terrific individual and I look forward to seeing if we can find ways to keep him close to rugby union."
