A Newcastle Emlyn rugby player has retired from international rugby.
Gareth Davies has confirmed his decision to step away from the international stage after a decade-long career with Wales.
His final appearance for the national team was in July, where he captained the side to a 36-35 victory against the Queensland Reds in an uncapped match at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane.
On social media, Mr Davies said: "I've decided that, after ten incredible years playing for Wales, I am retiring from international rugby.
"It was my childhood dream to represent my country and I have loved every moment in a Wales jersey."
The scrum-half made his debut for Wales in 2014 and went on to earn 77 caps, scoring 17 tries in the process.
He also played in three Rugby World Cups and won a Six Nations Championship in 2021 which included a Grand Slam.
Reflecting on his career, Mr Davies said: "From winning my first cap on the summer tour back in 2014, to playing in three Rugby World Cups, winning a Six Nations Championship, and a Grand Slam... it really has been special."
Despite stepping away from international duties, Mr Davies has expressed his enthusiasm for continuing his club rugby career.
He said: "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."
Wales senior men’s head coach Warren Gatland commended Mr Davies for his commitment to the national team.
He said: "Gareth has been a great player for Wales over the last decade and he has always given everything in the red jersey.
"There have been some really memorable moments, like his tries against England in the World Cup in 2015 and against Australia in the 2019 and 2023 World Cups."
Mr Davies started his rugby journey at his hometown club Newcastle Emlyn, before developing through the Scarlets Academy, which he joined in 2006.
He represented Llanelli at Welsh Premiership level before progressing into the senior Scarlets environment.
He was the leading try-scorer with 10 in the 2013/14 Guinness PRO12 season, which earned him a place on Wales’ summer tour of South Africa.
Scarlets head coach Dwayne Peel praised Mr Davies for his international career.
He said: "Gareth has enjoyed an outstanding international career, for Wales and the Lions.
"He has played in three World Cups, won Six Nations titles and a Grand Slam, and scored some incredible tries.
"He has been superb for us in the opening weeks of the season and still has a lot to offer us in terms of both playing and his leadership role here."
Mr Davies ends his international career as the second on the Rugby World Cup try scoring list for Wales behind Shane Williams.
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