Johnny Wilkinson retires from internationals

13/12/2011

Johnny Wilkinson has announced his retirement from international rugby, bringing to an end a career in which he won 91 caps.

The 32-year-old is leaving the scene with immediate effect, meaning those enjoying hospitality packages at Twickenham for the Six Nations will be watching a new fly half in action.

Wilkinson's glittering career saw him score 1,246 Test points, of which 1,179 were for England and 67 for the British and Irish Lions.

He also scored 277 points for England in the World Cup, none more famous than his last-minute drop goal to win the 2003 final against Australia.

Wilkinson said his career record of caps, points and world cups "gives me an incredibly special feeling of fulfilment".

"But by now I know myself well enough to know that I will never truly be satisfied," he added.

Wilkinson's departure marks another change in English rugby, which has also included the recent resignation as coach of world cup-winning captain Martin Johnson.

The side will be led in the Six Nations by an interim team of Stuart Lancaster, first name? Farrell and Graham Rowntree.

Rowntree said the tournament will offer a chance for the team to "wipe the slate clean".

By Keith Prowse