England captain Owen Farrell walks away from Test rugby
The England skipper has made himself unavailable for selection for the 2024 Six Nations campaign due to mental health concerns.
Owen Farrell says the reason for his decision to step down from the England captaincy and step away from Test rugby in general is to allow him to take a break “to prioritise his and his family’s mental well-being”.
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OFFICIAL WORD ON THE MATTER
In a statement, Saracens said on Wednesday that the 32-year-old will continue to captain and play for them at club level.
“Owen Farrell has decided to take a break from international rugby in order to prioritise his and his family’s mental well-being,” read the Saracens statement.
“This means he will not be available for selection for the 2024 Six Nations. He will continue to play for Saracens and captain the club.
“As always, Owen will have the full support of everyone at the club.”
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ENGLAND RUGBY SUPPORTS FARRELL’S DECISION
Farrell has won 112 caps since making his debut in 2012 and is England’s all-time leading points scorer with 1,237.
He captained England to the final of the 2019 World Cup and the last four of this year’s World Cup, which ended in a heartbreaking 16-15 defeat to eventual winners South Africa.
England head coach Steve Borthwick said: “He is an exemplary player, captain and leader and always gives his all for his country.
“It is with typical courage that Owen has made this decision to open up in this manner.
“Together with all of us at England Rugby, I will do everything I can to ensure that he has the support he requires going forward.”
© Agence France-Presse
