Wales legend Leigh Halfpenny to bring down curtain on international career

Veteran Wales full-back Leigh Halfpenny has confirmed his retirement from international rugby following his country’s clash against the Barbarians at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Saturday, November 4.

The 101 cap Welsh international made the announcement on social media and said: “Having had time to reflect after the Rugby World Cup campaign, it’s with a heavy heart that I’ve decided that it’s time for me to step away from international rugby.

“The decision hasn’t been easy, but the time feels right for me now and I look forward to running out one last time against the Barbarians next week at home.

“It’s been such a huge honour and privilege to put on the Welsh jersey and represent my country over the past 15 years. It was a dream as a kid growing up playing for Gorseinon to one day play for Wales and I’ve made the most incredible memories.

“There’s been ups and downs but I will look back on my international career with immense pride, there’s no better feeling running out to a full Principality Stadium wearing the Welsh jersey and singing the national anthem. I’m going to miss it, but I will be forever grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and to every single person who has helped me along the way.

“It’s been unbelievable to play with such special people over the years and I will cherish the friendships I’ve made.

Excited about Wales’ future

“I’m excited about this group of players coming through for Wales and what they can achieve in the future. I’m looking forward to supporting the boys from the stands.

“I’d like to say a huge thank you to all the players, coaches and staff I’ve been fortunate to work alongside; to my family and friends who have been with me through all the ups and downs and to all the fans who have supported me throughout.

“To Jess and the girls, your support and love has meant everything and to be able to have Lily and Nora watch me play for Wales has been one of my proudest moments.

“Whilst I’ll be moving on from the international game, I’m excited about the next chapter as a player in this game which has given me so much and look forward to sharing details on my club future soon. Diolch.”

The 34-year-old calls time on his Test career after making playing in 101 Tests for Wales and he is in seventh position on the all-time appearance list for his country.

Halfpenny also represented the British & Irish Lions in four Tests during the famous touring team’s trips to Australia and New Zealand in 2013 and 2017 respectively and he was named player of the series after their 2-1 series win over the Wallabies in 2013.

Wales head coach Warren Gatland said: “Leigh has had a fantastic career for Wales, firstly on the wing and then at fifteen where he has been brilliant – probably the best defensive full-back in the world and a tremendous goal kicker.

“He’s had his fair share of injury challenges over the years but has never let that hold him back.

‘A role model in professional rugby’

“If you are talking about role models in professional rugby, I don’t think you could find someone that works harder than Leigh in terms of how he prepares. The analysis, training and recovery he has done time and again has been really impressive, he is the ultimate professional.

“I’d like to thank Leigh for all he has done for Welsh rugby and wish him all the best for the future, I know his family and friends will be incredibly proud of all he has achieved.

“I look forward to watching him take to the field at Principality Stadium one final time in a red jersey on 4 November and I hope everyone will join me in celebrating him and Alun Wyn Jones at this match.”

Halfpenny is in third position on Wales’ all-time list of points-scorers with 801 points, behind Neil Jenkins (1,049) and Stephen Jones (917), and will be hoping to increase his points tally in his final match for Wales against the Barbarians next weekend.

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