George North in action for Wales over the years. Image: Welsh Rugby Union website.
World rugby’s North star bows out
One of the game’s brightest stars, George North, has announced his retirement from Test rugby.
George North in action for Wales over the years. Image: Welsh Rugby Union website.
Wales centre George North announced on Wednesday he will retire from international rugby following this week’s Six Nations match at home to Italy.
North was selected in the Wales the starting XV for their Six Nations clash against Italy on Saturday, after he was bizarrely excluded from the showdown against France last week during the Welsh’s fourth defeat of the championship.
‘THANK YOU’ — GEORGE NORTH
The 31-year-old North, who has won 120 caps, said on X, formerly known as Twitter, it was the “right to time step away”.
“I’ve decided that the game on Saturday will bring my international career to an end,” North wrote.
“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 been able to play alongside some fantastic teammates,” added North.
“I’ve been very lucky to have lived my dream. I’m excited for the next chapter. Thank you all for your support over the years.”
North’s retirement means he will miss Wales’ blue-ribbon Test against the Springboks at Twickenham in London later this year. The fixture, set to for 22 June, was a late addition to both teams’ schedule for this season.
