Australia's Matt Burke has confirmed he will retire from international rugby after the Test against South Africa. Burke, who has signed for English side Newcastle, dismissed speculation he might link up with Australia when they tour Europe in November.
"It keeps coming up, I don't know how," said Burke on Friday.
"From what I understand, after the Tri-Nations my association with Australian rugby is severed and I take up an appointment with Newcastle."
Burke, who starred in Australia's 1999 World Cup win, is moving to the north of England to play for the Falcons alongside England's 2003 World Cup hero Jonny Wilkinson.
Saturday's Test against the Springboks will decide who wins the 2004 Tri-Nations title and Burke said he was pleased to be quitting the international stage in such an important match.
"Being involved in the Tri-Nations is something special and you want to play in the matches of the highest possible standard," he said.
"You play the game to test yourself at the elite level, and there's nothing like playing a decider here.
"I'd rather go out on a stage like this than playing a game of lesser stature."
Burke has been named among Australia's replacements for Saturday but said it would not affect his approach to the game.
"Every player wants to start, but if you come off the bench you've also got to make an impact," said Burke.
"It could work out that you get on in the 79th minute (but) you've got to be prepared for minutes one to 80."
Burke began his international career against South Africa in 1993 and has scored 878 points, including 29 tries.
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