Wallabies scrumhalf Nic White has announced his retirement from Rugby following Saturday’s third and final British & Irish Lions Test.
White, 35, has played 72 games for the Wallabies since making his debut against Argentina in Perth in 2013.
Watch the Wallabies take on the British & Irish Lions live and on-demand via Stan Sport.
Following overseas stints in France and England, White made a spectacular return to Australian rugby in 2019 by spearheading the Wallabies' record-breaking win over New Zealand in Perth.
He would go on feature in two World Cups (2019 and 2023) while helping the ACT Brumbies to a Super Rugby AU title during that period.
It’s a fitting farewell for the now-Western Force scrum half, who was set to make his Lions debut back in 2013 only for injury to cruel his chances.
He will also finish up with the Force at the end of Super Rugby AUS.
In a statement, White said pulling on the gold jersey was a childhood dream come true.
"To say I’ve done it 72 times, with one last crack on Saturday night, is something I’m incredibly proud of and a privilege I’ve never taken for granted," White said.
“Rugby has given me so much to be grateful for. I’ve made some incredible memories, some lifelong friendships and had the opportunity to see the world.
“There’s been great competition for the nine jersey here in the Wallabies for a number of years and it feels like the right time to pass on the baton with some more good young players coming through who will need time in the saddle leading into what’s going to be an unbelievable experience of a home Rugby World Cup in 2027.
“In the meantime, I’ll keep working hard with the Western Force, who have been an incredible support for me and my family since we moved west nearly two years ago.
“Hanging up the boots for good at the end of the year will also allow me to spend more time with my wife Mel and three boys Leo, Sonny and Vinnie – which is something I’m massively looking forward to.
“There’s plenty of others who I owe a drink to for their support during my career, and I look forward to repaying that tab at the Maitland Blacks clubhouse, Assembly in Canberra or the Brisbane Hotel after a Force game in Perth.”
Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt paid tribute to White, celebrating his contribution to the game.
“First and foremost Nic is a great man to have in a squad. He’s team first all the time and has been at the top of the game for over a decade," Schmidt said.
“Having coached against Whitey, and now worked with him in the Wallabies environment, he’s the ultimate competitor.
“I know how much pulling on the gold jersey means to him and on behalf of the current group we wish him and his family all the best for the next chapter.”
“On behalf of everyone at the Western Force, I want him to congratulate Whitey on an unbelievable career. As a player and leader he will leave Australian Rugby in a better place for his immense contributions," Force coach Simon Cron added.
“At the Force, Whitey has been a big driver in our team with his leadership, high standards and on-field performances. He’s an amazing human and awesome player. It’s been brilliant working with him over the last two years.
“Naturally it is a hard decision for him and his family but it’s the right time for them to move on to an exciting new chapter.
“We know they're really happy living in WA and we will look at ways to keep him involved in rugby here in the west.”
