Matt Stevens retires from international rugby
10/08/2012
Saracens prop Matt Stevens has announced his retirement from international rugby with immediate effect.
With the start of the new domestic season approaching, the 29-year old announced what he called the "difficult" choice to end a career that has included 44 caps and two Rugby World Cups.
"Playing for England has been the ultimate honour and I have been very privileged and proud to wear the white shirt and play with some great players," he remarked, adding that he was fully behind the efforts of the national coaching team to build a young side ahead of the 2015 Rugby World Cup.
Fans keen to see the development of the team can watch it taking shape while enjoying corporate hospitality at the QBE Internationals this autumn, when Fiji, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa all visit Twickenham.
Emerging England players include Stevens' team-mate at Saracens Owen Farrell, who recently said playing at club level alongside another former international fly-half Charlie Hodgson has been a "massive learning experience".
By Liz Johnstone
