England prop Mako Vunipola, 32, retires from internationals

England prop Mako Vunipola has announced his retirement from international rugby.

The 32-year-old's decision ends a Test career which saw him win 79 caps. He has also won nine caps for the British & Irish Lions, playing in nine successive test matches across the 2013, 2017 and 2021 tours.

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He will continue to play for the Saracens club, but Vunipola leaves behind a superb legacy as one of the best props to play for England.

His stint in the national free team began in 2012 and he ended up playing 11 years in the top tier where he won the Grand Slam in 2016 and further Six Nations titles in 2017 and 2020.

Vunipola was also part of the England squad that reached the 2019 World Cup final alongside his brother Billy.

“It has been an honor to have represented my country but all good things must come to an end,” Vunipola said on Instagram. “It’s time to step back now. There have been a lot of ups and downs.

“I would love to thank everyone who has helped me along my journey. To my wife Alex Vunipola, thank you for taking care of our family and for all your support. Words don't do it justice.

“To my parents, I am forever grateful for everything you sacrificed for me to be here. Malo aupito and Ofa atu. God is good.”

Vunipola becomes the fourth player to announce his international retirement in the last three months. Courtney Lawes, Ben Youngs and Jonny May all retired after the Rugby World Cup.