Ex-England skipper Hartley announces retirement

Northampton and England hooker Dylan Hartley has confirmed his immediate retirement from rugby after failing to overcome a knee injury. The 33-year-old hasn’t played since Northampton’s win over Worcester last December having picked up a knee issue in that game and despite initially planning to return for what would be his 15th season at Saints, he hasn’t been unable to get back to full fitness. Confirming his plans to hang up his boots with immediate effect, Hartley said: “The last few months have been difficult mentally and physically as I’ve come to terms with the fact that I am no longer able to compete. “I am extremely proud of my journey, both with Saints and representing England, but now is the right time to hang up my playing boots.” Hartley retires as the second-most capped player in England history having represented the Red Rose 97 times, with only fellow forward Jason Leonard’s tally of 114 bettering his own. Many of Hartley’s England appearances came as captain, guiding them to a Six Nations Grand Slam in 2016 and then successfully retaining the title the following year. Eddie Jones’ decision to name Hartley skipper was a controversial one at the time with the hooker having been banned for a total of 54 weeks during his career for a variety of offences, including eye-gouging and biting an opponent. “My career wasn’t perfect, but I wouldn’t have had it any other way,” added Hartley, who also played 251 times for Northampton. “I’m privileged to have experienced some amazing highs while there have also been some personal lows, all of which are powerful experiences that will stay with me forever.”