England's Emily Scarratt announces retirement from rugby

England star Emily Scarratt has officially retired from international rugby at the age of 35.

Scarratt, a centre who made her England debut in 2008, ends her career with 119 caps and a record 754 points — including 54 tries, 158 conversions and 56 penalties.

She was part of England’s Women’s Rugby World Cup triumph in 2014 and helped the team claim a second title in 2025 on home soil. She also became the first England player, across men’s or women’s squads, to appear in five World Cups, with her first outing in 2010 and her fifth in 2025.

Over a 17-year international career, Scarratt contributed to England’s dominant run in the northern hemisphere, including multiple Six Nations titles.

She also captained Team GB at the Rio Olympics in 2016 and won Commonwealth bronze with England in 2018.

In 2019, she was named World Rugby Women’s Player of the Year. As she steps away, Scarratt leaves an unmatched legacy as one of the greatest to wear the Red Roses shirt.

"It's been the greatest privilege to wear the England shirt and to represent my country for so many years," Scarratt said.

"Rugby has given me everything; incredible teammates, memories, and experiences I'll carry with me forever.

"I still love the game, but the time feels right to step away. You don't always get the chance in sport to make that decision for yourself, and I feel so lucky to do so on my own terms, proud of everything I've been part of.

"From my first cap in 2008 to walking out in front of more than 80,000 people at a World Cup final, the journey has been incredible.

"To have witnessed and played a part in the transformation of women's rugby from amateur to professional is something I'm immensely proud of.

"I want to say a huge thank you to my family; my Mum, my Dad and my brother Joe for their support right from the start -- from playing at Leicester Forest all the way to the Allianz Stadium, you have been amazing.

"To all those who have supported me from my teachers, to my coaches and teammates at my first club through to Lichfield, Loughborough Lightning and England -- thank you for everything.

"Thank you too to the amazing fans of women's rugby who have grown and grown in numbers and who have always been part of what makes playing for England so special.

"While it's the right moment to stop playing, I'm really excited to stay involved with the RFU and to help shape the future of the game. The women's game is in an amazing place, and I'm proud to still be part of its journey."

Photography by Lizzy Terry/TEZ.PHOTOG