Michalak calls time on international career

France fly-half Frederic Michalak has announced his retirement from international rugby following the humiliating World Cup quarter-final defeat at the hands of New Zealand.

The 33 year old, who plays for Top 14 side Toulon, lasted just 11 minutes of Saturday's contest at the Millennium Stadium before heading off down the tunnel injured.

An eventual 62-13 humbling by the defending champions merely added to his woes, with Michalak admitting afterwards his body could no longer cope with the demands of the international game.

"I had thought I would end my international career on a better note but my body can no longer respond," he said in quotes on the French Rugby Federation website.

"It's very difficult to perform constantly to a very high level, For me this is the end, for sure."

Michalak made 77 appearances for Les Bleus and played in three World Cups for France - 2003, 2007 and 2015.