England and Harlequins scrum-half Danny Care has bid adieu to his international rugby career, marking the conclusion of a storied chapter.
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The 37-year-old, who featured prominently in England’s recent Six Nations campaign, including his remarkable 100th cap milestone, has decided to hang up his international boots.
Reflecting on his journey, which saw him realize his childhood dream of donning the red rose jersey, Care expressed profound gratitude. “To represent England even once was beyond my wildest aspirations. To have done so over a century of times is truly humbling,” he remarked.
Following deep contemplation, Care concluded that the time has come to pass the baton, both for himself and the team. “In the past year, wearing the England jersey has been an unparalleled joy.
“It’s with a heavy heart but a sense of fulfilment that I announce my retirement from international rugby,” he stated.
In homage to his remarkable career, Care shared insights into the toughest adversaries and most cherished teammates he encountered along the way.
1. Ma’a Nonu
Known initially more for his braided hair and eyeliner, he added passing and kicking to his raw line-breaking power to become one of the great centres, capping his Test career with that superb World Cup final try against Australia in 2015.
He’s still doing his thing in his 40’s for San Diego Legion in the USA.
CARE SAID: “I’ve played against Ma’a quite a few times. Firstly, he’s such a handful to rein in. Just look at him, he 17 odd-stone and unbelievably powerful but he’s so much more than just a crash ball merchant.
“He really worked on his offloading game and he reads the ball well. He’s a real specimen and will happily run over you all day but off the pitch, he’s really nice guy, the first to shake your hand and buy you a beer. He’s a great lad.
“I’d love to be his size for a couple of games, it would be a lot of fun.”
