Laidlaw calls time on Scotland career

Record-breaking former Scotland captain Greig Laidlaw has ended his international career at the age of 34.

Laidlaw has skippered Scotland more times than any other player, leading his country out in 39 of his 76 appearances.

The Clermont Auvergne fly-half is also the second-highest all-time points scorer for Scotland with a tally of 714.

Laidlaw on Thursday announced that a defeat to hosts Japan in the Rugby World Cup in October will be his last Test.

BREAKING | Greig Laidlaw, Scotland’s most capped Captain, calls time on his International career. Last week Greig invited us to France to discuss his decision.

Watch his video at https://t.co/0zv1sFlFYx #AsOne pic.twitter.com/9A948iFENL

— Scottish Rugby (@Scotlandteam) December 19, 2019

“Emotionally, this decision was incredibly tough. However, when I reflected on what I have learned from playing Test-level rugby and where Scotland is as a national team, it makes sense,” Laidlaw.

“Captaining your country to victory is the stuff of childhood dreams. To say I will never again stand in the tunnel, filled with nerves, alongside my rugby family and lead my team-mates out on to the pitch at Murrayfield, is incredibly hard.

“While my body and heart could continue playing, my head tells me that it’s time to let the team rebuild. In terms of where Scotland is now, they are in a position to spring forward and I cannot wait to give them my full support from the stands.

“To the Scotland coaches and backroom staff over the years who dedicate hours behind the scenes to prepare the team collectively and as individuals, I thank you.

“To the people who have helped me achieve my dreams: my team-mates, my parents, sister, family, close friends and my incredible wife, Rachel, and our sons, I will be forever thankful for all the support you have shown me over the years; you have stuck by me through thick and thin.

“I’d also like to thank Scottish Rugby and the staff behind the scenes who have both supported me as captain and a player and enabled the team to perform in front of capacity crowds.

“And finally, a massive thanks to the Scotland supporters both in Scotland and abroad for sharing the rollercoaster ride of international rugby with me.

“Your support was always appreciated, from messages on social media to being at the stadium, or just stopping to chat on the street. I look forward to supporting the team alongside you all at Murrayfield soon.”

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