- George North will retire from international rugby after Wales’ game vs Italy
- North has won 120 caps for Wales during his illustrious career in rugby union
- The 31-year-old clinched two Grand Slams and four Six Nations titles with Wales
Wales Test centurion George North has confirmed he will bring the curtain down on a glittering Test career on Saturday after announcing a shock retirement form international rugby.
North will win his 121st and final Wales cap against Italy in Cardiff. His decision, at the age of just 31, is a huge blow to Wales head coach Warren Gatland.
‘I have decided the game on Saturday will bring my international career to an end,’ North said.
‘After 14 years it feels like now is the right time to step away. I have loved and cherished every second in a Welsh shirt and have been able to play alongside some fantastic team-mates.
‘I am very lucky to have lived my dream. I’m excited for the next chapter. Thank you for all the support over the years.
George North has announced his retirment from international rugby union at the age of 31
North made his debut for Wales back in 2010, scoring twice during their game vs South Africa
Wales coach Warren Gatland admitted he remembered the first time he saw North play and ‘thinking we need to cap this kid’
North will start against Italy after being dropped for Wales’ defeat by France.
The giant back started his career on the wing and scored twice on his Test debut against South Africa in 2010. He played at four World Cups and won four Six Nations titles and two Grand Slams.
‘George has contributed hugely to Welsh rugby in an incredible career starting as an 18-year-old,’ said Gatland.
‘I can remember seeing him play and thinking we need to cap this kid.
‘He’s been incredible as a rugby player, but I think the most important thing is how he’s contributed to the squad as a person over the years. How positive and encouraging he’s been within and around the group, things that people wouldn’t have seen in terms of what he’s organised off the field.
North will start against Italy after being dropped for Wales’ defeat by France last weekend
‘George has been outstanding and a credit to himself. He can definitely hold his head high. He and his family and friends can be very proud of everything he has achieved.
‘I look forward to watching George play at Principality Stadium one final time in a red jersey on Saturday and I hope everyone will join me in celebrating him.’
