Murray calls time on Test career

Editor

Scotland tighthead Euan Murray has announced his international retirement, stepping away from the Test game as Scotland's most capped prop.

The veteran front-row won 66 caps for his country but has decided to call it a day months before the World Cup.

Currently at Glasgow Warriors, Murray has been linked with a move away from the club at the end of the season.

However, the 34-year-old explained that it was for family reasons that he was calling time on his Scotland career, with his third child due in August.

"I am extremely proud and grateful to have represented the people of Scotland at rugby for so long," he told Scottish Rugby.

"I will retire with many great memories of victories, tours, and friends, both in the playing squad and team management.

"My wife Sarah is due our third child in August and I have to be with my family as much as possible before and after the birth.

"Clearly, with the Rugby World Cup looming, the national squad will be training and playing throughout that period and I have too much respect for the national jersey to put myself forward in those circumstances.

"I've made this decision now after much deliberation and lengthy discussions with team management so that they can plan ahead accordingly.

"I'd like to take this opportunity to thank all the excellent coaches, world-class medical staff, supportive fans, friends, and, most of all, my family for helping to make my career possible.

"I wish the Scotland men all the very best with this year's Rugby World Cup and beyond.”

Murray likely would have been first choice for Scotland at the Rugby World Cup, and his retirement leaves head coach Vern Cotter a little short of options.

However, the Scotland boss was quick to praise Murray for his commitment to the side over the last ten years, during which time he also went on the 2009 Lions tour, although injury ruled him out of the Tests.

"I'd like to thank Euan for his hard work and application during my time as Scotland head coach," said Cotter.

"It's also fitting to recognise Euan's dedication over a ten year international career at the coalface of the Scotland forward pack."