A figure in Welsh rugby will bow out. The back of the Leek XV, Leigh Halfpenny, 34 years old and 101 caps, has indeed announced that he will end his international career, after playing one last match against the British Barbarians, on November 4 in Cardiff. “Having had time to reflect after the World Cup, it was with a heavy heart that I decided it was time for me to step away from international rugby. It wasn’t an easy decision to make, but the time feels right now and I look forward to playing one last time against the Barbarians next week at home.” The former RC Toulon player, European champion in 2015, continues: “It has been a huge honor and privilege to put on the Welsh jersey and represent my country for the last 15 years. When I was a kid it was a dream to play for Gorseinon (South West) and one day play for Wales and I have the most incredible memories. There have been ups and downs, but I will look back on my international career with immense pride. There’s no better feeling than running around a packed Principality Stadium, wearing the Welsh jersey and singing the national anthem.
“I will miss it, but I will be forever grateful for the opportunities I have had and to every person who has helped me along the way. It has been incredible to play with such special people over the years and I will cherish the friendships I have made, he continues. I’m excited about this group of players coming forward for Wales and what they can achieve in the future. I can’t wait to support the boys from the stands.”
And to conclude: “I would like to say a huge thank you to all the players, coaches and staff I have had the chance to work with, to my family and friends who have been with me through all the ups and downs. downs, as well as to all the supporters who have supported me throughout (my career). Although I will be leaving international rugby, I am excited about the next chapter as a player in this sport that has given me so much and I look forward to sharing details about my future at my club soon.
Last April, the Welsh international full-back announced his departure from the Scarlets, after six seasons at Llanelli. Wales was eliminated in the quarter-finals of this edition by Argentina (17-29). Halfpenny honored his 100th cap at the beginning of August in a warm-up match against England. He is the third best director in the Leek XV (801 points), behind Neil Jenkins (1,049) and Stephen Jones (917).
