Danielle Waterman announces retirement from international rugby

England Women back Danielle Waterman has announced her retirement from international rugby with immediate effect at the age of 33.

"It has been an incredible journey and a true honour to be a Red Rose for the past 15 years," said Waterman. 

"Its been a huge privilege to have not only played alongside and against some of the best players in the world, but to have been part of the huge development and progression of women's international rugby to date...

"Winning the World Cup in 2014 was definitely a dream come true. And to beat New Zealand for the first time in 16 years and go world number one and to do it with the support of the Lions crowd was amazing.

“Playing in a home World Cup in 2010 too. Although it was heart-breaking to lose in the final that was the first time that I really felt that women’s rugby had been recognised by the media and the support - for the final, a full stadium packed with England fans signing swing low was just incredible.”

The Wasps Ladies FC full back retires at sixth on the all-time list of England Women’s appearances with her 82 caps. She is also one of the leading England Women try scorers, having crossed the line 47 times.