Red Roses legend Emily Scarratt has said wearing the England shirt has been her “greatest privilege” as she announces her retirement from rugby.
Scarratt bows out after more than 17 years at the top of the game, with more than 119 caps for England.
Her other accolades include two Rugby World Cup wins, 11 Six Nations titles, representing Great Britain at the 2016 Rio Olympics as captain, and claiming Commonwealth bronze with England Sevens.
She ends her career as the player who has scored the most points in Red Roses history (754) through 54 tries, 158 conversions and 56 penalties.
Emily Scarratt said: “It’s been the greatest privilege to wear the England shirt and to represent my country for so many years. Rugby has given me everything; incredible teammates, memories, and experiences I’ll carry with meforever.
“I still love the game, but the time feels right to step away. You don’t always get the chance in sport to make that decision for yourself, and I feel so lucky to do so on my own terms, proud of everything I’ve beenpart of.
“From my first cap in 2008 to walking out in front of more than 80,000 people at a World Cup final, the journey has been incredible. To have witnessed and played a part in the transformation of women’s rugby fromamateur to professional is something I’m immensely proud of.”
Just weeks ago, Scarratt became the first English player – male or female – to play in five Rugby World Cups, a fitting final chapter for one of the sport’s all-time greats.
The world-class centre began her playing career aged five at Leicester Forest and went on to play for Lichfield and Loughborough Lightning.
Scarratt will now take on a specialist coaching and mentoring role with the Rugby Football Union this season, supporting player development across the England pathways.
She added: “While it’s the right moment to stop playing, I’m really excited to stay involved with the RFU and to help shape the future of the game. The women’s game is in an amazing place, and I’m proud to still be part of itsjourney.”
Head Coach John Mitchell said: “Emily is a once-in-a-generation player. Her quality, her calmness underpressure, and her ability to lead by example set the standard for everyone around her.
“There was no better example of this than the role she played during the recent World Cup, where she added immense value off the field, despite not playing as much as she might have hoped for – that is just the kind ofspecial person that she is.
“She’s had a huge impact on the Red Roses and on women’s rugby globally, and we’re thrilled she’ll continue to share that experience through a different role.”
RFU CEO Bill Sweeney said: “Emily’s contribution to English rugby cannot be overstated – on and off the field she has been a model professional, a leader, and a role model for thousands of girls who have picked up the ball because of her.
“We’re delighted that she’ll remain part of the England Rugby family in the season ahead and continue to help shape its future.”
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