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Rugby League

Cunningham ends GB career

20/08/2006

St Helens hooker Keiron Cunningham has called time on his international career with Great Britain.

The rugby league legend, who made his debut in 1996, has struggled with injuries in recent years and only played one test since 2003.

Now, with a Powergen Challenge Cup final appearance beckoning this weekend at Twickenham against Huddersfield Giants, Cunningham has made clear he will be focusing on his club commitments.

In an interview with the Sunday Mirror, he said he had considered his decision and felt it was the right one at this stage in his career.

"I'm at the stage where I feel I should be concentrating on my club rugby. I've been on three tours Down Under and this six-week trip would be too long," he commented.

"Being away from my family for that time would be too much and they have to come first.

"I've explained the situation to coach Brian Noble, who hopes I will reconsider my decision, but at this stage I won't be going."

The 29-year-old Welshman has been at the club for 12 years and has established himself as one of the best hookers ever to play for the Saints.

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