Wales scrum-half Gareth Davies has officially announced his retirement from international rugby after a distinguished 10-year career.
Davies, who has 77 caps for his country, announced the decision on social media, reflecting on a journey that began in 2014 and has seen him represent Wales in three Rugby World Cups, win a Six Nations title, and play an important role in the 2019 Grand Slam.
Davies, 34, captained Wales in his final international encounter, a 36-35 victory over the Queensland Reds in Brisbane as an uncapped player. “It was my childhood dream to represent my country, and I have loved every moment in a Wales jersey,” Davies told ESPN.
“From my first cap on the summer tour in 2014 to winning three Rugby World Cups, a Six Nations championship, and a Grand Slam, it’s been a truly memorable experience.” Thank you to my family, my wife Katy, my friends, and all of the fans for their support over the last decade.”
Davies’ decision comes only days before Wales head coach Warren Gatland is expected to name his squad for the forthcoming fall internationals. Gatland complimented the Scarlets half-back, saying, “Gareth has been an outstanding player for Wales over the last decade and has always given his all in the red jersey. His tries against England in the 2015 World Cup and Australia in 2019 and 2023 were remarkable. “He and his family can be proud of his international accomplishments.”
Davies’ career highlight occurred during the 2015 Rugby World Cup, when his match-winning try against England at Twickenham helped the home nation depart the tournament early. He finished the 2015 World Cup with five tries, including crucial touchdowns against Fiji and South Africa in the quarterfinals.
Davies scored 17 tries for Wales during his career, making him one of the country’s leading international scorers. He was chosen for the British & Irish Lions tour in 2017, but did not play a Test match, and he helped Scarlets win the 2017 Guinness PRO12 title with a try in the final.
Davies progressed via the Scarlets Academy, starting in 2006, and went on to play for Newcastle Emlyn and Llanelli before making the Scarlets senior squad. His consistency earned him his first Wales cap in 2014, during the summer tour of South Africa, and he immediately established himself as a prominent player, recognized for his speed and game-changing abilities.
Davies also helped Wales win the Guinness Men’s Six Nations, playing a key role in both the 2019 Grand Slam and the 2021 Championship. He started three games in each of those tournaments and was a steady presence off the bench in the rest.
Looking ahead, Davies is excited to continue his club career and make contributions to the game in the coming years. “I still have a lot to give to the game, and I’m looking forward to the last few years of my club rugby career,” he added, thanking the Welsh rugby community for its years of support.
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