HULL FC second rower Gareth Ellis has announced his retirement from international rugby league with immediate effect, ruling himself out of the World Cup.
The 32-year-old has reached his decision following consultation with England coach Steve McNamara and officials at Hull after opting to concentrate on his club career.
"After picking up untimely knocks over the last couple of years, I feel it is time for me to focus on my club," said Ellis, who has played 22 games for England, as well as 17 caps for Great Britain.
"It will allow me more time to rest up and recover before taking part in a full pre-season, something I haven't done since 2002 ,and hit the ground running in 2014.
"It's been something I've been thinking about for a long time and it's been a very tough call to make as I was always very proud to represent England and it will be extremely disappointing to miss the World Cup.
"We made it to Wembley this year which was a great achievement, but I want to be there again next year and the year after. I want to be able to play my part for the club week in and week out, and make a contribution to help us achieve things and I feel the best way for me to do that now is to retire from international rugby."
England coach Steve McNamara wished him all the best for the future and said: "Gareth has made a massive contribution to England, both on and off the field, where his attitude was never anything other than totally professional.
"The standards of his performances with Wests Tigers demonstrated that England players are among the best in the world and though he has had a difficult season with injury I have no doubts that he has lots to offer Hull FC in the years to come."
