Wales fullback Halfpenny to retire from international rugby

Leigh Halfpenny has announced his retirement from international rugby and the Welsh fullback is set to play his final match for his country against the Barbarians next week, the 34-year-old announced on Wednesday.

Halfpenny has 101 caps for Wales since making his debut in 2008. He is his country’s third all-time top scorer with 801 points and was part of their squad at this year’s Rugby World Cup in France .

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“Having had time to reflect following the Rugby World Cup campaign, it is with a heavy heart that I have decided it is time for me to step away from international rugby,” said Halfpenny. in a press release.

“The decision was not easy, but the time seems right for me now and I look forward to playing one last time against the Barbarians next week at home.”

Halfpenny, who also made four Test appearances for the British and Irish Lions, will continue to play club rugby. But, after announcing the end of his tenure at the Scarlets after six years in April, he is yet to confirm his next club.

“Although I will be leaving international football, I am excited about the next chapter as a player in this game that has given me so much, and I look forward to sharing details about the future of my club soon,” Halfpenny added. his statement.

Wales will face the Barbarians on November 4 at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff.