Lawrence Dallaglio today became the latest member of England's World Cup-winning squad to announce his international retirement.
The 32-year-old back-row forward has followed in the footsteps of Martin Johnson, Neil Back, Jason Leonard, Kyran Bracken and Paul Grayson in deciding to end his Test career in the wake of last November's triumph over Australia in Sydney.
His nine-year career with England has seen him collect 73 caps, including 22 appearances as captain. His last four Tests in charge, however, ended in defeat - against France in the Six Nations, and three crushing losses on their summer tour of New Zealand and Australia.
Even so, Dallaglio will still be remembered as one of England's most inspirational back-row forwards, and he leaves a big hole in the team's scrum.
Dallaglio said in a prepared statement: "I've been very fortunate to have played with and against some of the greatest players the game has ever seen.
"Throughout my career I have had the chance to work with some very talented coaches, each of whom in their own individual way have helped me become a better player.
"I've been lucky enough to have been involved in the England squad since 1994 and I feel after 10 years of being an England player the time is right to step aside.
"I've always felt, perhaps as other players before me, that I would know, almost instinctively, when it was the right time to retire from playing for England. I honestly feel that time is now.
"In my personal opinion there can be no greater honour or pride than to represent your country.
"In doing so you live the dreams and aspirations of the whole nation and have the ability to inspire and enrich others. I've had that privilege on 73 occasions."
He added: "Of course, I would like to thank Sir Clive Woodward, the RFU and all the supporters and sponsors for all the support they have given me over the years."
"I just felt my some of my peers had made the same decision and England need a number of people to rebuild. I felt the time was right now and it wasn't because of the (Lions) tour.
"I'm not retiring from rugby. I've got two years left on my contract at London Wasps and looking forward to competing.
"It's never easy to time these things but it's nice to make it myself and have a bit of control of my life - you can't change to international timetable. I'm looking forward to spending time with my family, playing for Wasps and figuring out what I'll do after rugby.
"I don't want this to be a day to be sad. I've got a huge amount to be very grateful for. There's been highs and lows but it's exciting because it's a chance for me to move on. I will take enourmous memories from playing for England.
"We were not the youngest team at the World Cup and it's inevitable that there's change. Players unfortunately can't go on forever.
"But you've got to be positive anad it gives England a chance to rebuild and look to the future. There's a fantastic number of players coming through and domestically and in Europe our sides are very strong.
