England loosehead prop Joe Marler has retired from Test rugby at the age of 28.
Marler, who earned 59 Test caps, told coach Eddie Jones of his decision before the England squad camp in Bristol this week.
‘It is an incredible commitment to play rugby for England and I strongly believe that if you are unable to give yourself fully to it then it is time to step away,’ he said. ‘Otherwise, it would not be fair on the team, or my family. Being with England, you have to spend an incredible amount of time away and I could not do that any more.’
Jones said: ‘Joe is a great player and team member so I am disappointed and we will miss him. But he has made his decision on personal grounds and we understand his reasoning. He’s a good guy – an honest, mature person who understands the demands of the game and the demands of family life. I have got to admire his honesty and the way he has gone about this.’
