Legendary flanker Justin Tipuric has confirmed his retirement from international rugby with immediate effect.
As a result, the Ospreys flanker won’t be going to the 2023 Rugby World Cup with Warren Gatland’s side after winning 93 caps for his country.
The Trebanos RFC product has been a mainstay in the Welsh squad since his international debut back in 2011. Known for his incredible work rate, agility, and rugby IQ, Tipuric has been an integral part of the Welsh national team for over a decade. He has contributed significantly to Welsh rugbyโs recent successes, helping the team win four Six Nations tournaments, including two Grand Slams.
Having made his debut against Argentina back in 2011, Tipuric has been a mainstay of Welsh rugby for over a decade. In that time, he has become known as one of the finest open-side flankers in the game. His work-rate and ability to steal the ball at the breakdown have made him a vital component of the Welsh team.
Speaking on his decision, Tipuric said:
โDuring the off season I’ve had time to reflect on my playing career and now seems the right time to step away from international rugby.
โIt’s been a privilege to put on the Welsh jersey and have so many great memories.
โI’d like to thank all the players and coaches that l’ve been fortunate enough to work with over the years and the wonderful support I’ve received from the Welsh public.
โI’m looking forward to spending more time at home and putting all my energies into playing for my home region the Ospreys.โ
England and Wales handed nightmare groups in revised Rugby World Cup draw
The latest World Rugby Rankings reaffirm home how ridiculous the Pool Draw for the Rugby World Cup 2023 is.
Decided THREE years before the tournament, the pools for the tournament that starts in September seems extremely unbalanced.
World Rugby has already confirmed they will hold the pool draws for future Rugby World Cups at a later date, closer to the kick-off of upcoming tournaments.
This comes after criticism that the draws were taking place far too early, with world rankings at the time of the draw playing a crucial role in the teamsโ seedings.
World Rugby will shake the pool draw up ahead of 2027, according to a report by the Mirror.
โWorld Rugby said it is able to make the change because of a new โhosting modelโ that sees the international federation create collaborations with the host union,โ the report read.
โThe top of the menโs Test game has never been more competitive,โ the spokesperson added. โThere has never been so much movement over a two-year period.
โBearing that in mind and noting the format of four pools of five teams, there is arguably no perfect time for a draw.โ
As a result, the guys over at Eggchasers Rugby put together their own drawer the 2023 tournament based on the current World Rugby rankings.
Concentrating on only the top 10 countries in the world, it looks significant.
It was very different with England and Wales handed a much sterner test in their pool. Watch the full video here.
POOL A actual draw:
- France
- New Zealand
POOL A up to date draw
- France
- Australia