Wales scrum-half Davies retires from internationals

Wales scrum-half Gareth Davies has announced his retirement from the international stage at the age of 34.

The Scarlets half-back won 77 Wales caps and toured twice with the British and Irish Lions in a Test career that began in 2014 in South Africa.

He helped Wales win a Six Nations Grand Slam in 2019 and the title in 2021 and scored a memorable winning try against England at Twickenham in the 2015 World Cup that contributed to the hosts exiting the tournament at the group stage.

Davies has announced his decision four days before Wales boss Warren Gatland is due to name his squad for the nation’s 2024 home autumn Tests against Fiji, Australia and South Africa.

Davies’ last Wales appearance came in their 36-35 win against the Queensland Reds in an uncapped fixture at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane in July where he captained the side.

Davies said on social media: “I’ve decided that, after 10 incredible years playing for Wales, I am retiring from international rugby.

“It was my childhood dream to represent my country and I have loved every moment in a Wales jersey.

“From winning my first cap on the summer tour back in 2014, to playing in three Rugby World Cups, winning a Six Nations championship and a Grand Slam… it really has been special.

“Thank you to my family, my wife Katy, my friends and all the fans for their support over the past decade.

“It’s been an honour to represent Wales and with this exciting young group of players coming through I feel now is the right time for me to step away from international rugby.

“I still have a lot to give to the game and I’m looking forward to the last few years of my club rugby career. Diolch.”

Wales boss Warren Gatland said: “Gareth has been a great player for Wales over the last decade and he has always given everything in the red jersey.

“There have been some really memorable moments, like his tries against England in the World Cup in 2015 and against Australia in the 2019 and 2023 World Cups. He and his family can be very proud of his international achievements.

“I know he still has a lot to give rugby and look forward to continuing to watch him play at club level.”

Last weekend Davies scored two tries as Scarlets won at Cardiff in the United Rugby Championship.

He helped the west Wales team win the current competition’s Pro12 predecessor in 2017 with a win against Munster in Dublin.

Scarlets head coach Dwayne Peel said: “Gareth has enjoyed an outstanding international career, for Wales and the Lions.

“He has played in three World Cups, won Six Nations titles and a Grand Slam and scored some incredible tries. I have enjoyed working with him and look forward to doing so at the Scarlets.

“He has been superb for us in the opening weeks of the season and still has a lot to offer us in terms of both playing and his leadership role here.”