England Prop Matt Stevens has announced that he has decided to stand down from International Rugby with immediate effect.
rugbyweek
The Saracens prop, who won 44 caps and appeared in two Rugby World Cups, has informed England Head Coach Stuart Lancaster.
“This is one of the most difficult decisions I have had to make. 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,” said Stevens.
“I believe England under Stuart, Graham (Rowntree) and Andy (Farrell) are heading in the right direction towards 2015 and I remain a huge supporter of what they are doing. ”
“But I have a young family and, conscious that I would not be able to commit to the World Cup in three years, I have decided that the time is right to call it a day and to focus on my rugby at Saracens.”
Lancaster said: “On behalf of England Rugby I want to thank Matt for his contribution over the years.”
“He should look back on his international career with pride. I am sure he will continue to be successful with Saracens and beyond.”
Stevens’ replacement in the England Elite Player Squad will be announced in due course.
August 10th, 2012 at 13:01 SAST
sniff sniff, what a shame
August 10th, 2012 at 14:45 SAST
Came back quite nicely after spending some time out of the game serving his suspension but one would guess he is past his best and more importantly with his priorities as he said shifted more towards his family now then probably a good decision by Matt to step back and just focus on earning his living at Saracens.
August 10th, 2012 at 16:12 SAST
Matt from WP, no? I recall him playing for Ikeys way back…. with that blonde centre(Stuart Abbott?) who also played for WP/England, and then Griffons on his return to SA.
I am sure Matt is a Saffa though.
August 10th, 2012 at 16:35 SAST
@ Pietman:
Yes, ok, I “phoned a friend”.
Matt played for the U/18and 19 Bokke, also WP/Ikeys.
Stuart Abbott from Cape Town, he was part of the Lions’ WC winning squad in Oz 2003.
Now we have Brad Barritt and that ‘Hanslam from the Hantam’ (Mauritz Botha from Calvinia) over there, doing the honours for ‘Queen and country’.