Wales centre North to call it a day

London – Wales centre George North announced yesterday he will retire from international rugby after this weekend’s Six Nations match against Italy, when both teams will be battling to avoid the wooden spoon.

North, who has won 120 caps, said on X, that it was the “right time to step away”.

The 31-year-old, who has been recalled to the starting side for the clash in Cardiff, is second on Wales’s all-time list of try-scorers with 47, behind Shane Williams (58).

“I’ve decided that the game on Saturday will bring my international career to an end,” said North, now playing club rugby for Welsh regional side Ospreys.

“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.”

He added: “I’ve been very lucky to have lived my dream. I’m excited for the next chapter.”

The England-born back scored two tries on his Wales debut as an 18-year-old wing against South Africa, after making his name with the Llanelli-based Scarlets.

Wales coach Warren Gatland, who gave North his international debut in his first spell in charge of the national side, paid tribute.

“George has contributed hugely to Welsh rugby in an incredible career, starting as an 18-year-old,” he said.

“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.”

The New Zealander added: “George has been outstanding and a credit to himself. He can definitely hold his head high.”

North will end his international career by trying to help Wales avoid losing all five games in a single Six Nations campaign for the first time since 2003, having lost 11 of their last 12 matches in the competition. –