0
France lock Pelous bows out
From correspondents in Paris, France
November 08, 2007
FABIEN Pelous, long regarded as the hard man of French rugby, has retired from the international stage with a record 118 caps.
"I think it's time to turn a page," the massive lock said quietly to ring the end of an international career spanning more than 12 years, three World Cups, four grand slams and five titles in the Five and Six Nations.
His 118 appearances for France, including 42 as captain, will long guarantee him a line in the rugby record books as France's most-capped player, second only in the world to the Australian George Gregan, who has 139.
"I never played for records but I'm now in a position to look back and I realise that it will mean I have left a mark on my time," Pelous said after breaking the French record of 111 caps held by former centre Philippe Sella.
"I think I owe my record to my passion for rugby which helped me get up every morning and go training with a smile, to the luck which protected me from serious injuries and to my parents who gave me natural strength," he said.
Agence France-Presse
"Remember lads, rugby is a team game; all 14 of you make sure you pass the ball to Giteau." 
Reply With Quote
