Farrell to take break from international rugby for ‘well-being’

England captain Owen Farrell has announced he will be taking a break from international rugby and will not be available for the 2024 Six Nations.

In a statement on the Saracens website, the club said Farrell had made the decision “in order to prioritize his and his family’s mental wellbeing”.

Farrell captained England to the semi-finals of the Men’s Rugby World Cup in 2023 and is the country’s leading points scorer, but has decided to refrain from playing for England for the time being.

“Everyone at England Rugby fully supports Owen’s decision,” England head coach Steve Borthwick said. “He has been an integral part of the England set-up for over a decade since his debut and the demands placed on elite athletes are extremely demanding. He is an exemplary player, captain and leader and always gives his all. country.

“It is with typical courage that Owen has made the decision to open up in this way. Along with all of us at England Rugby, I will do everything I can to ensure he has the support he has needed to move forward.”

Farrell, 32, broke England’s points record previously held by Jonny Wilkinson in their World Cup group stage victory over Samoa.

He helped the country reach the 2019 Men’s Rugby World Cup final and third place in France in October, but will not lead England to elimination from the 2024 Six Nations. Farrell will continue to play for the Saracens and captain during his international absence.