Leonard calls time on international career

England prop Jason Leonard has announced he is to end his record-breaking international career at the end of the Six Nations championship.

Leonard, the world's most capped rugby player with 114 Test appearances, has ruled himself out of the summer tour to New Zealand and Australia and informed Sir Clive Woodward that he is to call time on his 14-year stint in England's front row.

"I have no doubt that this is the time to bow out of international rugby for the right reasons. You have to put a stop to your career at some point and that time has now arrived," said Leonard.

"This is my decision, I have nothing to prove to anybody and I have been lucky enough to have achieved more than I could have ever dreamed of when I started in 1990."

Speaking in his London Evening Standard column, he added: "I have no regrets and have enjoyed every minute, but I realise that by not making myself available for England's summer tour that this had to be my final Six Campaign."

England coach Sir Clive Woodward praised Leonard's "massive contribution" to the game and made it clear he has a future in coaching once he decides to quit playing altogether.

"I had a long and positive chat with Jason this morning when he told me of his decision. Jason has been an outstanding ambassador for the game on and off the pitch," said Woodward.

"All of his caps for England have been earned on merit and his contribution towards four Grand Slams and a Rugby World Cup win with the national team has been massive over the last 14 years.

"Jason has played at the top level of the game for his country, the British Lions and Irish Lions and NEC Harlequins with distinction and he will be sorely missed by his team-mates in the England squad, the coaches, management and of course the fans.

"There are two games left in the RBS Six Nations for England and Jason remains in contention for each of them.

"When Jason decides to retire from club rugby I would like him to consider a coaching role within the game and hopefully at the RFU. He has a lot to offer and his experience would be invaluable.

"On behalf of the England team I'd like to wish him every success in the future."