SARACENS SECOND ROW Jim Hamilton has announced his retirement from test rugby after nine years and 63 caps for Scotland.
The 32-year-old, who made his debut against Romania in 2006, announced his international retirement on Twitter this morning after failing to make Vern Cotter’s final 31-man squad for the Rugby World Cup.
Hamilton featured in four of Scotland’s Six Nations games in 2015, and also made two appearances in Scotland’s warm-up games, with Cotter opting for Tim Swinson and Grant Gilchrist to join Jonny and Richie Gray as his four second rows.
In an emotional letter posted to Twitter, the English-born lock said that while he’s disappointed to miss out on a third World Cup, he’s grateful for everything Scottish rugby gave him.
“Today is both a sad day and a day that I feel extremely proud to have had.
“Fifteen years ago from today I was on the bare bones of my arse. Never in a million Saturday afternoons did I think I would have represented this beautiful country of Scotland 63 times on the rugby field.”
“I have loved every single moment of wearing the thistle and feel extremely humble to have done it for nine years.”
Hamilton thanked his family and the Scottish fans for their support down the years, as well as the Scottish medical team, who he has kept busy down the years.
“Thank you to my wife and children for supporting me along the way.
“Thank you to the Scottish supporters for making the matches so special.
“A huge thank you to Frank Hadden for giving me my first opportunity in 2006. And also to Dr James Robson and Steven Mutch for patching me together so many times. Kit man John Pennycuick and team manager Gav Scott for keeping me grounded.”
“Scottish rugby has not only given me an opportunity to play rugby at the highest level but has given me a platform to be a better man.
“I wish everyone involved with Scottish rugby all the best and I know consistent success is around the corner #63andout.”
“Big Jim” will continue to represent Saracens, after joining them last season following spell in France with Montpellier.
Hamilton played 22 times for the club in his debut season, featuring regularly in the Champions Cup as they reached the semi-final, before being defeated by Clermont Auvergne.
Originally published at 4.14pm
