June 29th, 2006

England and Saracens forward Maxine Edwards has today (Thursday) announced her retirement from international and club rugby.

The 39-year-old prop, who has also captained her country, has amassed an impressive 45 caps for England women since her international debut in 1990.

Edwards played in the inaugural Women’s World Cup in 1991 in which England finished as runners-up to the USA. Her last world cup appearance was in 2002 in Barcelona where once again England had to settle for second-best, this time to New Zealand’s Black Ferns.

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

“For several years she has been at the top of her sporting career and also led England with pride and professionalism through a changing era.

“Maxine has been an outstanding player for England and we all wish her all the best for the future.”

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