Parker retirement hits Wales' plans
Sonny Parker’s unexpected retirement put a late hitch in Wales coach Mike Ruddock’s plans as he prepared to name his squad to start the RBS 6 Nations Championship today.
Wales and Ospreys centre Parker last night announced his shock decision to call time on his international career.
Ruddock attempted to persuade the 28-year-old New Zealander, capped 18 times over the last three years, to go back on his decision.
But Parker remained committed to stepping down from the top level, saying he had not got his “head in the right place at international level anymore”.
Ruddock must therefore think again as he finalises his plans for the reigning champions.
“We are incredibly disappointed that Sonny has decided to step down from the international stage and made every effort to dissuade him from doing so,” confirmed Ruddock.
“We would have picked him in this year’s squad as we prepare to defend the Championship title.
"But we have to respect his decision when he says that he can no longer give the commitment required for rugby at this level, and we wish him all the best in the future.”
