UPDATE: Wallabies games record-holder James Slipper has just announced his retirement from international rugby, set to conclude his illustrious career during the highly anticipated Bledisloe Cup clash against New Zealand on Saturday night in Perth. The announcement comes as Slipper prepares to play his 150th Test, a significant milestone in the world of rugby.
At 36 years old, Slipper joins an elite group of players, becoming one of only three to reach 150 Tests, alongside Welsh icon Alun Wyn Jones and New Zealand’s Sam Whitelock. Slipper’s final match will hold special significance as it takes place in the same city where his professional journey began, back in 2010 against England.
Despite stepping away from the international scene, Slipper will continue competing with the Brumbies in the upcoming Super Rugby Pacific competition. He remarked, “It feels like the right time for me to step away from Test Rugby,” highlighting the emergence of promising young talent in the prop position and his desire to spend more time with his family.
“To say I’ve lived my dream for what’s coming on 16 years is more than I could ever have asked for,” Slipper added, reflecting on his journey from playing backyard footy on the Gold Coast to wearing the coveted gold jersey.
Slipper’s remarkable career includes a record for the most Test caps by an Australian, and he is recognized as the most-capped international Test prop, surpassing Ireland’s Cian Healy by 14 caps. His achievements also include being one of only three Wallabies to participate in four separate Rugby World Cups, alongside legends George Gregan and Adam Ashley-Cooper.
Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt, who also departs after the Bledisloe Cup Test, praised Slipper’s contributions both on and off the field, stating, “First and foremost, Slips is a great person… His record speaks for itself with the number of milestones he has achieved.” Former Wallabies star and current Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh described Slipper as “a remarkable servant of Australian rugby,” emphasizing his durability and professionalism throughout his 16-year career.
As rugby fans prepare to witness Slipper’s final international match, they will celebrate the legacy of a player who has not only set records but has also inspired countless young athletes across Australia. The Bledisloe Cup clash promises to be an emotional farewell for one of rugby’s greats.
Stay tuned for live updates and reactions from the match, as the rugby world bids farewell to a true legend.
