After a decade of performing at the highest level for Wales, earning 77 caps in the process, scrum-half Gareth Davies has announced his retirement from the international game.
The 34-year-old has achieved plenty since first making his test debut back in 2014 in place of Mike Phillips, going on to win the Six Nations on two separate occasions, appearing at three different World Cups, and providing injury cover for the British and Irish Lions.
Despite the retirement announcement, the Scarlets player will continue to play at club level, stating that he still has a “lot to give to the game” and is looking forward to his final few years as a professional rugby player.
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Posting on social media Davies said: “I’ve decided that, after ten incredible years playing for Wales, I am retiring from international rugby.
“It was my childhood dream to represent my country and I have loved every moment in a Wales jersey.
“From winning my first cap on the summer tour back in 2014, to playing in three Rugby World Cups, winning a Six Nations championship and a Grand Slam… it really has been special.
“Thank you to my family, my wife Katy, my friends and all the fans for their support over the past decade.
“It’s been an honour to represent Wales and with this exciting young group of players coming through I feel now is the right time for me to step away from international rugby.
“I still have a lot to give to the game and I’m looking forward to the last few years of my club rugby career. Diolch.”
Scarlets head coach Dwayne Peel said: “Gareth has enjoyed an outstanding international career, for Wales and the Lions. He has played in three World Cups, won Six Nations titles and a Grand Slam and scored some incredible tries.
“His Scarlets career is equally distinguished and we enjoy working with him at the Scarlets as one of our leaders in the group. He has been superb for us in the opening weeks of the URC season and continues to offer us a lot both on and off the field.”
Wales senior men’s head coach Warren Gatland added his respects to the veteran of the game, noting: “Gareth has been a great player for Wales over the last decade and he has always given everything in the red jersey.
“There have been some really memorable moments, like his tries against England in the World Cup in 2015 and against Australia in the 2019 and 2023 World Cups. He and his family can be very proud of his international achievements.
“I know he still has a lot to give rugby and look forward to continuing to watch him play at club level.”
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