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Rugby Union

Corry announces retirement

08/01/2008

Former England captain Martin Corry has rejected a place in his country's Six Nations squad and retired from international rugby union.

The 64-cap veteran was selected for the northern hemisphere competition, which begins next month, but has told England head coach Brian Ashton that he no longer wants to be considered.

Corry, who was a member of the squad that won the Rugby World Cup in 2003, has revealed his desire to concentrate on his club rugby with Leicester Tigers, saying "this is the right time to step aside".

"I still have ambitions as a Leicester Tigers player and I am fully committed to achieving them with the club," Corry said.

He continued: "I have had a fantastic international career and I have some marvellous memories of momentous games with England and playing alongside and against some great players around the world.

"I am grateful to all of the coaches who gave me those opportunities with England but, with a World Cup campaign just behind us, I think this is the right time to step aside.

"Being involved with the national squad is a highlight for any player and I was also fortunate enough to be involved in three World Cup squads and captain my country, which I see as the ultimate honour for a professional sportsman."

Corry made his England debut against Argentina in 1997, and was named captain for the first time under former coach Andy Robinson during the 2005 Six Nations.

His captaincy was somewhat tainted as he and Robinson experienced a difficult time at the England helm as they endured several embarrassing losses, including against Scotland in the Six Nations and Argentina at Twickenham in the autumn.

However Corry's quality as a player has rarely been questioned and his distinguished career includes selection as a member of the 2005 British and Irish Lions squad.