Regan started England's last two Tests in the summer

The 32-year-old hooker told coach Andy Robinson of his decision after Steve Thompson and Andy Titterrell were chosen ahead of him to face Canada.

"I've always been there as 'Mr Reliable' but this time I thought I deserved the shirt," said Regan.

Robinson said: "Mark's had a tremendous England career, and you have to respect a player's decision when they retire."

Regan played second fiddle to Northampton's Steve Thompson during the World Cup and last year's Six Nations Championship.

It will be the Tykes who get the best out of me now Mark Regan

But after Thompson's loss of form he started England's last two Tests against New Zealand and Australia in the summer, and expected to stay in the team.

"I'd played the last two and have kept going, starting this season well with Leeds," Regan added.

"I had planned to retire from England at the end of the season but the timing is right now for me."

Regan made his England debut against South Africa at Twickenham in 1995 and won 33 caps, being part the squad that won the World Cup last year.

I'd like to thank him publicly for all his hard work in the England cause and wish him good luck at Leeds From RB Have your say on Scrum V

He follows Martin Johnson, Lawrence Dallaglio, Neil Back, Jason Leonard, Kyran Bracken, Paul Grayson and Dorian West into retirement.

"The commitments with England put a big strain on your family and you have to give a large part of your life up with training and playing taking me off for long periods," he added.

"I feel I can release the shackles now and go out and perform for Leeds on the weekend. It will be the Tykes who get the best out of me now.