Wednesday 14 March 2018 16:20, UK
Warrington stand-off Kevin Brown has withdrawn from England's elite performance squad and announced his retirement from international rugby league.
The 33-year-old won 10 England caps during his career and has taken the decision in a bid to prolong his Super League career with Wolves.
Brown will not be replaced in the elite performance squad for the mid-season Test and autumn international Test series against New Zealand at this stage, leaving 20 players at Wayne Bennett's disposal.
Brown said: "It feels like now is the right time for me to retire from international rugby. I'll be 34 by the end of the year when the international Test series comes around and I think having the rest at the end of the season will help me play better and for longer at Warrington Wolves.
"Obviously I'm disappointed I can't play on forever but I think I've been really lucky that I've played so many games, I started playing for England in 2010 and finished at the end of 2017, I've loved every minute but I just feel that the timing is right.
"I spoke to Wayne to let him know my decision and thanked him for everything. He is one of the nicest coaches I've had and one of the coaches I've learnt most from, especially in such a short period."
Brown played four times for England in the 2017 Rugby League World Cup after making his debut in 2010 under Steve McNamara.
England head coach Bennett added: "Kevin has been the ultimate professional and shown a great attitude and an unwavering commitment to the England programme.
"He contributed greatly to our performance at the World Cup and in the mid-season Test game against Samoa.
"Kevin has all the playing and personal qualities that we require from our players and showed great professionalism throughout.
"We fully understand the reasons behind his decision and wish him the very best."
