Jonny Wilkinson retires from international rugby

Osem · 12-12-2011, 18:29

According to Associated Press breaking news.

http://www.breakingnews.com/item/ahB...ional-rugby-ap

If it's true it's a sad day for England rugby fans but the management have made it known those who choose to play in France will not be considered for England so it was inevitable I think.

What a great servant he's been as well as a model professional which some of his team-mates would have done well to emulate whilst in NZ recently and hopefully learn from.

Never to be forgotten for his total commitment, unerring accuracy and determination in the face of repreated serious injuries, not to mention a certain drop goal in 2003 to win the Rugby World Cup in Australia.

Well done Jonny and thanks!!

Will try to find a proper link asap.

Halcyon · 12-12-2011, 19:36

I wish I could retire at his age!

Cobbydaler · 12-12-2011, 19:39

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugb...n/16151002.stm

Thanks for your magnificent contribution...

**Hugh** · 12-12-2011, 20:07

Quote:

Originally Posted by Halcyon

I wish I could retire at his age!

He's not retiring from rugby, just International Rugby.

gba93 · 12-12-2011, 21:44

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cobbydaler

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugb...n/16151002.stm

Thanks for your magnificent contribution...

First Steve Thompson now Jonny - sad news but I guess time marches on - can I echo your thanks.

DES_1001 · 13-12-2011, 00:55

He's been good!

denphone · 13-12-2011, 06:24

A truly great player for England at his peak and may he have a happy international retirement.

Osem · 13-12-2011, 08:45

Quote:

Originally Posted by Halcyon

I wish I could retire at his age!

I think if Jonny felt he could play on at a high enough level he'd have been only too delighted to carry on but he knows his age has caught up with him and his focus is now to continue playing for as long as possible at a club level.

My hope (and I'm sure his) is that new blood in the RFU will lead to some new blood in the England team in preparation for the next RWC.

Pog66 · 13-12-2011, 11:57

Inevitable I feel after an indifferant World Cup and "new broom" etc. etc.

A great shame he had constant injuries after 2003 when he was at his peak - what might he have achieved had he played consistantly when at his peak.

Osem · 13-12-2011, 17:52

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pog66

Inevitable I feel after an indifferant World Cup and "new broom" etc. etc.

A great shame he had constant injuries after 2003 when he was at his peak - what might he have achieved had he played consistantly when at his peak.

Yes, I think many less dedicated players would never have made it back to international level.