"End of an era" - Six England players will retire after Argentina game this weekend - Ruck

“End of an era” – Six England players will retire after Argentina game this weekend

England is poised to say their farewells to six seasoned international stalwarts following their bronze medal showdown against Argentina this Friday.

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While they would have preferred their swansong in the Red Rose jersey to occur during Saturday’s highly anticipated final, Steve Borthwick’s squad remains determined to conclude the tournament on a triumphant note.

Here, RUCK provides a closer look at the cohort in question…

Courtney Lawes

Lawes has been a stalwart in the England team, amassing over 100 appearances and representing his country in four World Cups. 

His outstanding performances for both club and country also earned him the privilege of participating in two British & Irish Lions tours during his Test career.

Lawes said: “I haven’t told Steve yet! But I will let him know.

“I’ve said to the boys, anyone that’s asked. I think it’s time. I’ve done four World Cups, so I’m pretty happy with that.

“It’s a bit of an end of an era, but it’s been a real honour for me to represent England for so long. It flies by.

“I’m proud of the journey I’ve been on. It’s not always been the ups. Plenty of downs in there, but I’ve pushed through.

“I’m not an emotional person really, but it’s just been a huge honour for me.

Joe Marler

Marler is set to bid farewell to England duty once again, a decision he previously made back in 2018. He confessed that a meeting with Borthwick played a crucial role in persuading him to strive for a spot in the squad.

Reflecting on this, the Harlequins player shared, “It might have been two years ago when I was thinking: ‘Not a chance do I want to go to another World Cup,’ earlier this summer. “But as it’s got a bit closer, I’ve been thinking: ‘Let’s give it a go.’”

Joe Marler of England celebrates after winning during the Autumn Nations Match between England and Tonga at Twickenham Stoop on 6 November 2021. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK

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