France and Toulon centre Mathieu Bastareaud has retired from international duty.
His announcement comes a day after being omitted from France’s World Cup squad in Japan later this year.
The 30-year-old 19 stone back took to social media to confirm his departure from the international stage.
“The road has not always been easy but wearing this jersey has been my greatest pride, and representing my country, my family, an honour. I am happy, grateful and proud to have achieved this kid’s dream. It is time for me to turn the page… I wish good luck to my team-mates for this beautiful event that awaits them,” he said.
Bastareaud was expected to be involved in Jacques Brunel’s side following his heavy involvement during the Six Nations earlier in the year and even organised his loan move to Rugby New York around the World Cup.
However, the 54-cap international may change his plans now having been left out of both the 31-man squad for the tournament and the six-man back-up list.
Although Bastareaud has been involved in a rough time of France’s history he does have a Six Nations Grand Slam title to his name from 2010 and has gone on to captain his national side on several occasions since his debut.
The French fan favourite will become the biggest name yet to move to the US’s Major League Rugby competition come the new season and will spend a season there before returning to Toulon.
