March 25, 2024, 7:23 p.m. GMT
Updated 1 hour ago
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Danny Care says spending more time with his family has influenced his retirement in England.
England and Harlequins scrum-half Danny Care has announced his retirement from international rugby.
The 37-year-old played in all five of England's Six Nations games this year and won his 100th cap in the 23-22 win over Ireland on March 9.
Care, who has a record 369 appearances for Harlequins, said: “Playing for England was a dream come true.”
“Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would get the opportunity to do it more than 100 times.”
Care added: “Having given it a lot of thought over the last few months, it feels like it is time for me and the team to retire from international rugby.”
“The last 12 months in this England team have arguably been my best and have created memories that my family and I will cherish and remember forever.”
Care made his England debut aged 21, coming on as a substitute in a 37-20 defeat against New Zealand in June 2008.
He helped England win the Six Nations Grand Slam in 2016 and won titles in 2011 and 2017.
Care has also featured at two Rugby World Cups, making the selection list in 2015 and helping England reach the semi-finals in France in 2023.
He retires as one of only six men's players to have won 100 caps for England, equivalent to 101 appearances after 15 years at international level.
“I would like to thank all the England fans from the bottom of my heart who have supported me and the team unconditionally over the years, all over the world,” Care said.
“It means the world and nothing will ever beat the feeling of going to see you all at Twickenham.”
Billy Millard, Harlequins' director of rugby, said: “We are incredibly proud of Danny and everything he has achieved for England.”
“He has been the ultimate professional over the last 15 years and has worked extremely hard to fight his way back and reach 101 caps.”
“It is a great testament to his character, hard work and professionalism and we congratulate him on a fantastic career in England and look forward to his continued impact at Quins.”
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