May 22nd, 2006

England and Saracens forward Claire Frost has today (Monday) announced her retirement from international rugby because of an on-going Achilles injury.

The 33-year-old no. 8 has amassed an impressive 42 caps for England women since her international debut in 1997.

She has since gone on to play in two Rugby World Cups, including acting as vice-captain during England’s 2002 Rugby World Cup final defeat to the Black Ferns in Barcelona.  She also captained England during their successful Churchill Cup tour in 2003 in Canada.

England Women’s head coach Geoff Richards said: “Claire has been a marvellous ambassador for the game of women’s rugby, both on and off the pitch.

“For nearly ten years she has been at the top of her sporting career so to have to end her international career through injury is both unfortunate and very disappointing.

“Claire has been an outstanding player for England and we all wish her all the best for the future and hope that she can get back on the pitch for Saracens.”

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