Corry calls time on England career
Martin Corry has announced he is to retire from international rugby.
The 34-year-old Leicester Tigers player, writing in the Guardian, said: "If there is ever a right moment to step aside from representing England this is it.
"I've had my time and none of us can keep going forever. It's just a shame I am getting old."
The former captain of the national side, who appeared in the World Cup final defeat against South Africa in October, added: "If I could carry on for the next 10 years I would because I genuinely love playing for Leicester and England.
"Brian (Ashton, England head coach) rang me to say they were going to name me in the 32 (for the RBS 6 Nations) and asked if that was what I wanted.
"Unfortunately, I just can't keep doing it all.
"Something has to give if I want to keep playing to the required standard."
It means Ashton will be shorn of another experienced player following the retirements of Jason Robinson, Mike Catt and Lawrence Dallaglio for England's first match against Wales at Twickenham on February 2.
Corry has earned 64 England caps as well as six for the British Lions, and was a member of the 2003 World Cup-winning side.
