NORA STAPLETON IS the latest player to announce her international rugby retirement, joining the likes of Ailis Egan and Marie-Louise Reilly in stepping away.
The 34-year-old took to social media to announce the decision, confirming that her appearance for Ireland in their final Women’s Rugby World Cup game against Wales last Saturday was her last.
“Hard to say goodbye but Saturday’s game wasn’t just my 50th cap but also my final cap,” she wrote.
“Thanks for the incredible support over the years.”
The out-half was part of the Grand Slam-winning side in 2013 and claimed a second Six Nations medal two years later.
Stapleton was also a crucial ingredient in the Irish side that famously beat the All Blacks at the 2014 World Cup.
It wasn’t the fairytale ending that the Donegal native would’ve wanted as Ireland endured rather than enjoyed their hosting of this year’s edition.
The side suffered three straight defeats and will now have to qualify for the 2021 tournament.
It promises to be quite the transition. As well as the player retirements, coach Tom Tierney also stepped down immediately after the loss to Wales.
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