Matt Stevens quits international rugby

ENGLAND prop Matt Stevens has retired from international rugby. The Saracens forward has won 44 caps and played at the 2007 and 2011 World Cups.

But the 29-year-old feels he cannot commit himself through to the next World Cup in England in 2015, and will focus his efforts on club rugby.

He said in an RFU statement: “This is one of the most difficult decisions I have had to make. Playing for England has been the ultimate honour and I have been very privileged and proud to wear the white shirt and play with some great players.”

Stevens added: “I believe England are heading in the right direction towards 2015 and I remain a huge supporter of what they are doing. But I have a young family and, conscious that I would not be able to commit to the World Cup in three years, I have decided that the time is right to call it a day and to focus on my rugby at Saracens.”