The upcoming 2023 Rugby World Cup is expected to be the end of an era, for these five international stars.
Each of these players are centurions for their countries, and are likely to hang up their boots following this year’s showpiece in France.
Living legends with decorated careers, here are five players expected to retire from international duty, and who is expected to carry the torch forward from them, after the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
1. Alun Wyn Jones – Wales
With 156 test match caps, Alun Wyn Jones holds the test match record for Wales. His incredible career sets the standard for international longevity, as no player has achieved more caps for their country than Jones. He eclipsed Richie McCaw’s record of 148 All Blacks appearances against France in 2020, and is currently involved in his 17th consecutive Guinness Six Nations competition.
Since becoming the first choice lock ahead of the 2007 Six Nations, Alun Wyn Jones has held onto the shirt ever since. However, the legendary lock looks to be finally winding down, with a new generation of fresh-faced Welsh players set to breakthrough. After an under-par performance against Ireland in the opening round of the 2023 Six Nations, the 37-year-old was in fact dropped by Warren Gatland ahead of Wales’ trip to Murrayfield.
Exeter Chiefs lock Dafydd Jenkins replaced Jones in the row, with the 20-year-old putting in a strong performance against Scotland. Jones is back in the starting line-up against England, after Gatland announced the team yesterday. He seems to remain in the former British & Irish Lions Head Coach’s plans for now, yet Gatland has made it clear that he is looking to introduce young stars to the Welsh squad, with Jenkins possibly taking the torch forward after the Rugby World Cup.