 Grimes has 71 international caps |
Scotland and Newcastle lock Stuart Grimes is taking a year out of international rugby. The 31-year-old second-row forward plans to return to the international arena ahead of the 2007 World Cup.
"Considering the physical demands of the sport, I feel that I need to take a step back from the international game at the moment," he said.
He stressed he would be "available for selection in the future, particularly in the lead up to the next World Cup".
He also said he wanted to make it clear that it was an entirely "personal decision".
Grimes is Scotland's third most capped player with 71 caps, with only Gregor Townsend and Gordon Bulloch having more.
Richie Dixon, the Scottish Rugby Union's interim director of rugby, said: "Stuart's commitment to the international team has been unquestionable and we will certainly miss a player of his talent and experience in the coming season but fully respect his decision."
MMIX
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