England captain Owen Farrell will miss the 2024 Six Nations after opting to take a break from international rugby to “prioritise his and his family’s mental well-being”.
Farrell came in for intense criticism during the World Cup despite leading England to the semi-finals where they were unfortunate to lose out to eventual winners South Africa.
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And he has now decided to step away from England duty, although he will continue to play for club side Saracens.
An England Rugby statement read: “England captain Owen Farrell has decided to take a break from international rugby in order to prioritise his and his family’s mental well-being. He will not be available for selection for the 2024 Six Nations.
“He will continue to play for Saracens and captain the club.”
England captain Owen Farrell will take a break from international rugby to prioritise his and his family’s mental well-being
Owen has the full support of everyone at England Rugby 🌹
— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) NOVEMBER 29, 2023
England coach Steve Borthwick added: “Everyone at England Rugby is fully behind Owen’s decision.
“Since making his debut, he has been an integral part of the England set up for over a decade and the demands on elite athletes are extremely challenging. He is an exemplary player, captain and leader and always gives his all for his country.
“It is with typical courage that Owen has made this decision to open up in this manner. Together with all of us at England Rugby, I will do everything I can to ensure that he has the support he requires going forward.”
