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Rochelle Clark: England's most capped player retires from international rugby

Rochelle Clark of England on her 135 appearance for England during the Natwest Women's Six Nations match between Scotland Women and England Women. Mark Runnacles/Getty Images

Rochelle Clark, England's most-capped player, has announced her retirement from international rugby.

The 37-year-old represented her country 137 times -- surpassing Jason Leonard's previous record of 114 in November 2016 -- across a career spanning 15 years and four World Cups.

Clark made her England debut in 2003 and was awarded an MBE for Services to Rugby in the 2015 New Year's Honours List, having been part of the Red Roses' 2014 winning World Cup squad.

Clark, who has also played for Worcester Valkyries, will carry on playing club rugby at Wasps next season in the Tyrrells Premier 15s.

In a statement released by the Rugby Football Union, Clark said: "It's with a heavy heart that I have decided it is time to retire from international rugby.

"To receive my first cap was a dream come true and it was with the same pride and hunger that I walked out a further 136 times for England. It was always an honour and a privilege to take to the pitch wearing the rose.

"The highlight has to be winning the 2014 World Cup, made all the more special having come close twice before.

"I have been incredibly lucky to wear the shirt through some major changes to the game, playing as both an amateur and professional. I am excited for the direction women's rugby is headed and am proud of the contributions we made as players along the way.

"I look forward to continuing on the pitch with Wasps and in my career as a coach for Chesham Stags."