Sarah Hunter will carry her distinguished taking part in profession to an in depth in her house city of Newcastle when England face Scotland within the Women’s Six Nations on Saturday.
England’s most capped participant, with 140 appearances, has spent the final 16 years as a world and has chosen the match opener at Kingston Park as her remaining match with a purpose to end on her “own terms”.
The 37-year-old again row, born in North Shields, was a part of the Red Roses squad that received the 2014 World Cup and was additionally captain when the nationwide workforce reached the finals in 2017 and 2022.
In addition, England’s skipper since 2015 has received 10 Six Nations titles together with 9 Grand Slams.
“Not many athletes get to choose how and when they call time on their playing careers,” Hunter stated.
“I’m very fortunate that I have the opportunity to finish on my own terms. I couldn’t think of a better way to do it than in my home town where my rugby journey started.
“I get to finish in a place that has a special place in my heart in front of my friends, family and Red Roses supporters and I feel very fortunate that I’m able to do that.
“To play there in a white shirt – which is something I’ve been immensely proud of and I feel very honoured to have represented my country so many times – feels like an ending I couldn’t look past and I feel very fortunate that I get to do this.”
Hunter, the 2016 girls’s world participant of the 12 months, will proceed to educate Loughborough Lightning till the top of the season.
“Sarah is the most honest and professional player I have ever known let alone worked with,” England coach Simon Middleton stated.
“Throughout her career her commitment to being the best version of herself at every opportunity has shone through in her attention to detail and faultless preparation.
“I’d say she has maximised every ounce of her potential, which if when you reflect on your career you can say that, then it puts you in a very special category.”
“She’s an absolute inspiration for everybody who has played with her or worked with her and is the ultimate example to every young person who would want to play.
“The word legend is overused but it’s most definitely not in her case, she is and will always be a true England legend.”