JIM Hamilton has announced his retirement from international rugby with immediate effect, ending any possibility of a call-up as an injury replacement in the Rugby World Cup. The 32-year-old lock, who will go on playing club rugby for Saracens, was capped 63 times, most recently in the win against Italy in Turin.
When Vern Cotter, the Scotland coach, announced his final World Cup squad of 31 on Tuesday, he said he hoped that the players such as Hamilton who had been dropped at the last minute would remain on standby. But yesterday, in a statement released via Twitter, Hamilton called time on his Test career - and explained how much it had meant to him to represent his country.
“Today is both a sad day and a day that I feel extremely proud to have had,” he wrote. “For I announce my retirement from international rugby.
“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. 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.
“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.”
Hamilton, who became Scotland’s 1,000th international when he made his debut in 2006, might have made the squad but for the surprise return from injury of Tim Swinson. Rob Harley now appears to be the next lock in line should one of the squad be injured.
“Few people leave a lasting legacy in rugby” said John Barclay, another forward who failed to make Cotter’s final cut. “Jim Hamilton will. A warrior and a gent.”
Greig Tonks, the Edinburgh back, added his own humorous tribute. “Fortunate to have ran out for Scotland alongside Jim Hamilton even if he did make me drink out a shoe when I was 18,” he tweeted.
Blair Cowan, the openside flanker, made it plain yesterday that he remains available if needed. “Absolutely devastated after wanting it so badly,” he tweeted, having been omitted in favour of John Hardie. “But will be there if needed and will be stronger for it.”
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