Former Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones has retired from international rugby just four months before the World Cup.
Jones, 37, had been selected in Warren Gatland’s 54-man training squad for September’s tournament.
Jones played 170 times for Wales and the British and Irish Lions across a 17-year international career and is world rugby’s record cap holder.
His announcement follows that of former Wales team-mate Justin Tipuric, who was also named in Gatland’s training squad for the World Cup.
Jones captained Wales a record 52 times and led his country to the Six Nations Grand Slam in 2019. The Ospreys lock won two other Grand Slams with Wales, as part of five Six Nations titles overall.
“Having been selected in this year’s preliminary Rugby World Cup squad, and after ongoing dialogue with the coaching staff and the WRU, I have decided to step away from the international game,” Jones said in a statement.
“So, after 17 years I look back on special memories with Welsh greats and future Welsh greats. My grandfather and father both nurtured my passion for rugby in my younger days which has continued throughout.
“The opportunity to be professional in the sport I love was a dream come true, and to represent my home region, the Ospreys, and clubs within the region, namely Mumbles and particularly Bonymaen who guided me in my favourite years, was beyond special and something for which I am hugely grateful.
“A huge thank you to the staff and players who have been part of my journey, I wish you all well for the future. To the supporters, thank you for the support and making the most special occasions even more memorable.
“To the people closest to me, my family, I couldn’t have done it without you. Through injury, loss and success, you’ve always been there and will be for whatever’s next. Despite all I have accomplished, my children will always be my biggest achievement.”
Tipuric, also a former Wales captain, made his international debut in 2011 and won 93 caps. Tipuric, 33, was an integral figure in Wales teams for more than a decade, helping his country win four Six Nations titles, including two Grand Slams.
In a statement released by his agents WIN Sports Management, Tipuric said: “During the off-season I’ve had time to reflect on my playing career, and now seems the right time to step away from international rugby.
“It has been a privilege to put on the Welsh jersey and have so many great memories.
“I would like to thank all the players and coaches I’ve been fortunate enough to work with over the years, and the wonderful support I’ve received from the Welsh public.
“I am looking forward to spending more time at home and putting all my energies into playing for my home region the Ospreys.”
Tipuric’s decision comes just a month after his fellow Wales back-row forward Josh Navidi called time on his career, being forced into retirement because of a serious neck problem.
Additional reporting from PA
