Johnston retires from Tests

Editor

Samoa tighthead Census Johnston has announced his international retirement just six months out from the Rugby World Cup.

The veteran prop has decided to call time on his Test career, instead focusing on his club Toulouse, with whom he has just signed a new contract.

He follows in the footsteps of Toulouse team-mate Gurthrö Steenkamp, who retired from Tests last month.

"It's probably been the hardest decision of my career," he told the Midi Olympique.

"It might seem strange with the World Cup coming up in a few months. But I've played a lot of rugby in the last few seasons and I couldn't see myself doing the two months of preparation, playing the World Cup, and then going straight into a Top 14 season.

"I think it's the best decision for my family as well."