Jermaine McGillvary announces international retirement

Huddersfield winger Jermaine McGillvary will not be playing for England at the World Cup after he announced his shock retirement from the international game.

The 34-year-old’s decision comes ahead of England’s mid-season match against the Combined Nations All Stars at Warrington on Saturday, June 18.

McGillvary won 21 caps in total for England and Great Britain, scoring 12 tries. He also represented his Grenadian heritage whilst playing for the Combined Nations All Stars last year.

McGillvary said: “It’s not a decision I’ve taken lightly. I’ve given it a lot of thought and it feels like the right time. When I started out I never believed I would represent my country, but I’m immensely proud of what I’ve achieved.

“The 2017 World Cup was the pinnacle of my career. The whole experience – on and off the field – was incredible. I went from being an unknown to being in demand from NRL agents, got to play alongside the likes of Sean O’Loughlin and James Graham, and off the field got to mix with legends like Adrian Morley and Jamie Peacock. It was a dream come true.

“England are well blessed with quality wingers and I wish them well. I’m still going strong with Huddersfield Giants and I’m contracted till the end of 2023. I’ll see how I feel then.”

England boss pays tribute to Jermaine McGillvary

England coach Shaun Wane said: “Jerry is a fantastic player and has been a tremendous servant to England, Great Britain and Huddersfield over the years.

“His form is still good enough, but he wants to devote the rest of his career to his club and I fully understand his decision. Everybody within the England camp thinks very highly of him and we wish him well.”

McGillvary will continue to play for hometown club Huddersfield in Super League. He has scored 198 tries in 294 appearances for the Giants since 2010.

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