George North: Wales legend to retire from international rugby after Six Nations - 'The right time to step away'

George North will retire from international rugby after Wales’ final Six Nations match against Italy on Saturday.

North, 31, has made 120 appearances for Wales, behind only Gethin Jenkins (129) and Alun Wyn Jones (158) in the all-time list.

He is one of only five Welsh players to compete at four World Cups.

Announcing his retirement from the international game after this weekend's fixture in Cardiff, North said on X: “I have decided that the game on Saturday will bring my international career to an end.

"After 14 years, it feels like now is the right time to step away. I have loved and cherished every second in a Welsh shirt and been able to play alongside some fantastic team-mates.

"I am very lucky to have lived my dream. I'm excited for the next chapter. Thank you for all the support over the years."

North will continue playing club rugby as he is set to leave Ospreys to join Provence next season.

He made his debut for Wales in 2010 and has been an integral player for his country over the last decade.

He has scored 49 international tries, which is the most among active players, and is second on Wales’ all-time try scoring list behind Shane Williams (58).

North has been in and out of the side during the current Six Nations, missing the opening match against Scotland due to injury then starting against England and Ireland before being dropped for the loss to France.

He has been recalled for the wooden-spoon clash against Italy in place of Joe Roberts.

Wales head coach Warren Gatland has made five changes to his side, with North, Nick Tompkins, Dillon Lewis and Alex Mann starting, and captain Dafydd Jenkins reverting to lock.

Wales are bidding to avoid finishing bottom for the first time since 2003.

Wales team to play Italy: Winnett; Adams, North, Tompkins, Dyer; Costelow, T Williams; Thomas, Dee, Lewis, Jenkins (capt), Beard, Mann, Reffell, Wainwright

Replacements: E Lloyd, Mathias, H O'Connor, Rowlands, Martin, Hardy, I Lloyd, Grady

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