George North: Wales centre to retire from international rugby after Six Nations

The Wales rugby international enjoyed a 14-year career which began with two tries against South Africa back in 2010.

Wednesday 13 March 2024 14:46, UK

George North has announced Wales' final Six Nations match against Italy on Saturday will be his last international rugby game.

The 31-year-old centre says it feels like the "right time to step away" after a 14-year career.

North will play his 121st match for Wales against Italy after he was recalled to the team as Warren Gatland's side aim to avoid finishing bottom of the Six Nations table.

He wrote on X: "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 team-mates.

"I've been very lucky to have lived my dream. I'm excited for the next chapter.

"Thank you for all your support over the years."

North burst onto the international rugby scene as an 18-year-old, scoring twice against South Africa on his debut back in 2010.

On that day he became the youngest player in almost 117 years to score a try on his debut for Wales.

Born in England, North was raised in North Wales from the age of two, playing rugby since he was a young child.

Through a 14-year career, he has scored 47 tries and toured twice with the British and Irish Lions, first in Australia in 2013, then in New Zealand four years later.

Wales men's head coach Warren Gatland paid tribute to North's "incredible career".

He said: "George has contributed hugely to Welsh rugby, in an incredible career starting as an 18-year-old.

"The way that he burst onto the scene. 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.

"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. Diolch George."

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