Ben Youngs, who holds the record for the most appearances for England’s men’s team, is set to conclude his international career following the World Cup third-place play-off against Argentina on Friday.
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Close friend George Ford wrote on Instagram: “Every time has been a privilege, I will miss it greatly! One last time tomorrow my mate 🌹@benyoungs09“
Youngs said: “I feel unbelievably proud and privileged to have done this for so long,” he said. “The memories and teammates I’ve made along the way, as well as all the highs and lows, have helped shape me into the person I am today.
“It’s been an absolute privilege to have been given support from my family and the England fans as well. I’d like to thank you all very much for getting behind the team, for cheering us through the good times and for picking us up through the bad times.
“It’s a great honour now that I get to play one more game on Friday night and close a chapter that I’m very proud of.”
The scrum-half is one of six England stars poised to end their international careers later today.
While they would have preferred their swansong in the Red Rose jersey to occur during Saturday’s highly anticipated final, Steve Borthwick’s squad remains determined to conclude the tournament on a triumphant note.
Here, RUCK provides a closer look at the cohort in question…
Courtney Lawes
Lawes has been a stalwart in the England team, amassing over 100 appearances and representing his country in four World Cups.
His outstanding performances for both club and country also earned him the privilege of participating in two British & Irish Lions tours during his Test career.
Lawes said: “I haven’t told Steve yet! But I will let him know.
“I’ve said to the boys, anyone that’s asked. I think it’s time. I’ve done four World Cups, so I’m pretty happy with that.
“It’s a bit of an end of an era, but it’s been a real honour for me to represent England for so long. It flies by.
“I’m proud of the journey I’ve been on. It’s not always been the ups. Plenty of downs in there, but I’ve pushed through.
“I’m not an emotional person really, but it’s just been a huge honour for me.
Joe Marler
Marler is set to bid farewell to England duty once again, a decision he previously made back in 2018. He confessed that a meeting with Borthwick played a crucial role in persuading him to strive for a spot in the squad.
Reflecting on this, the Harlequins player shared, “It might have been two years ago when I was thinking: ‘Not a chance do I want to go to another World Cup,’ earlier this summer. “But as it’s got a bit closer, I’ve been thinking: ‘Let’s give it a go.’”
