Former Scotland skipper John Barclay announces international retirement

Former Scotland captain John Barclay has announced his retirement from international rugby with immediate effect.

The 33-year-old made his Scotland debut in 2007 during the World Cup encounter against New Zealand and has been capped 76 times scoring seven tries. His last appearance for the Dark Blues came during the recently concluded World Cup in Japan.

The Edinburgh back-row was appointed the captain of Scotland during the 2017 Six Nations tournament when he replaced injured Greig Laidlaw and under his reins, they went on to beat Wales for the first time in 10 years during the competition.

He moved to Edinburgh ahead of the 2018/19 season after making over 100 appearances for Glasgow Warriors and Scarlets each between 2015 and 2018.

“All good things must come to an end. After much thought I have decided the time is right to step down from the international game,” Barclay posted on his social media account.

“This isn’t an easy decision to make; playing for Scotland is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication and undoubtedly one the best things I will achieve in my life. But for me and my family it feels like the right time.

“It has truly been a privilege to wear the jersey. Not many people can say they got to live their boyhood dream, but I was lucky enough to have that honour and it is something I am unbelievably proud of.

“Not the end of my rugby journey, but the end of one chapter. Thanks for the memories.”