Corrigan calls time on Ireland career

Less than 24 hours after David Humphreys decision to retire from international rugby, Ireland prop Reggie Corrigan has followed suit. The Greystones man, like Humphreys with Ulster, has indicated he will continue playing for Leinster until the end of next season.

"It has always been a huge honour for me to wear the Ireland jersey, none more so then over the last six years where the fortunes of both the team and Irish Rugby have continued to rise," said Corrigan who won 47 international caps.

"Although every professional sportsman wishes they could continue forever, I have been lucky to have a career playing the game I love. This is the right time for me to make this decision from both a personal and professional point of view in advance of the World Cup."

Corrigan thanked Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan and wished him and his players every success on the road to next year's World Cup.

The 35-year-old won  his first cap as a substitute against Canada in November 1997 and started his first match later that month against Italy. He won his last cap against France in Paris during this year's Triple Crown-winning Six Nations campaign.

O'Sullivan today paid tribute to both Corrigan and Humphreys.  Both players, he said, were wonderful servants to the Ireland team.

"Reggie's natural athleticism and strength were massive attributes to the team," O'Sullivan said.

"He was a key member of the side and an integral part of our first Triple Crown win in 19 years in 2004.  I believe that Reggie will be remembered as one of Ireland's great front row forwards.

"David's wish to spend more time with his young family is understandable and I wish him the very best for his career plans.

"He was one of the most gifted players to wear the green jersey and played a key part in the success of the Ireland team over the last number of years.  I am sure that he will continue to be a strong influence with Ulster."

Humphreys has been a key figure for both club and country, winning 72 international caps over 11 seasons in rugby.

"I haven't played so much with Ireland this year and it's now time to concentrate on Ulster a bit more," said the outhalf last night.

"It's a family decision, they've not pressured me but because I have been away from home so much I've missed the first five or six years of my children growing up," said Humphreys of his international decision."