England scrum-half Danny Care announces retirement from international rugby

Harlequins and England scrum-half Danny Care has announced his retirement from international rugby with immediate effect.

Care made his England debut at the age of 21 against New Zealand in June 2008 and recently played his 100th Test in the recently concluded Six Nations tournament.

The 37-year-old was part of the England squad that went on to win three Six Nations titles including a Grand Slam in 2016 and represented them in the 2015 and 2023 Rugby World Cups.

"To play for England once was a dream come true. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I'd get the opportunity to do it over 100 times," he said on Instagram.

"After a lot of reflection the past few months, the time feels right for myself and the team to retire from international rugby.

"The past 12 months in this England team have been arguably my favourite, making memories that my family and I will cherish and remember forever."

Care made his professional rugby debut with Leeds Tykes in 2003 before moving to Harlequins in 2006. He has a record 369 Harlequins appearances and helped them win two Premiership titles in 2012 and 2021 apart from a Challenge Cup triumph in 2011.

"We're incredibly proud of Danny and everything he has achieved for England," said Harlequins Director of Rugby Billy Millard.

"He's been the ultimate professional for the past 15 years and worked extremely hard to fight his way back to achieve 101 caps. It's a huge testament to his character, hard work and professionalism and we congratulate him on a fantastic England career and look forward to his continued impact at Quins."