Most-capped Wallabies second-rower Nathan Sharpe is to retire from all competitive rugby at the end of the 2012 Super Rugby season.

Sharpe, who turns 34 on February 26, said he wanted to end speculation about his future and ensure his focus was only on helping his Western Force team to make the Super Rugby finals for the first time.

Sharpe has played 101 Tests for Australia, making him the equal fourth most capped Wallabies player, behind only George Gregan, George Smith and Stephen Larkham and equal with David Campese.

He debuted in 2002 and was still in the Wallabies ranks last year, playing at the World Cup in New Zealand.

“It is an emotional time for me,” said Sharpe in a statement on Friday.

“It’s one of those decisions you mull over and think ‘are you going too early or too late’ and I wasn’t really sure of that until recently.

“I’ve been incredibly lucky right through my career to have been involved with some great people and great teams.

“I’ve got one more shot at winning a title and I don’t intend on fading away, I want to finish with my best Super Rugby season yet, that’s the way I want to exit the game.”