England legend Danny Care to retire after 101 international caps and a trophy-laden career at Harlequins

Danny Care, one of rugby’s most charismatic and dynamic scrum-halves, has confirmed that he will retire from the game at the end of this season. The 38-year-old, who has earned 101 Test caps for England and made a staggering 394 appearances for Harlequins, will bring an end to his illustrious career with the club’s home match against Exeter this Sunday, providing fans with a final opportunity to see the player who defined a generation of English rugby.

Care’s retirement marks the conclusion of a remarkable journey that began in 2006 when he joined Harlequins from Leeds Tykes. Over the course of 19 seasons, Care became a stalwart of the club, winning two Premiership titles and a European Challenge Cup. His time at the Stoop was punctuated by both highs and lows, but it was his electric playing style and leadership that truly set him apart.

Having debuted for England in 2008, Care went on to become a key figure in the national team. His skilful and daring style made him a fan favourite, particularly in the 2016 Grand Slam-winning campaign and in the Six Nations titles of 2011 and 2017. However, Care’s path to international glory was not always straightforward. After being sidelined by Eddie Jones for almost four years, Care fought tooth and nail to re-enter the England fold in 2022, making a series of appearances off the bench during the 2023 Rugby World Cup, where England made it to the semi-finals before losing to South Africa.

Reflecting on his decision to retire, Care admitted that although it was a sad moment, it was the right time for both him and the club. “My body is old and it’s sore, I still feel I can do it, but it gets a lot harder every day,” he said. “It’s been fun, it’s been amazing, it’s been a rollercoaster, but it’s the right time.”

Care’s career was defined by his versatility and ability to change a game. Whether creating magic with ball in hand or providing precise passes that opened defences, Care was always a threat. His partnership with fly-half Marcus Smith helped Harlequins to another Premiership victory in 2021, while his leadership on and off the field set a standard for the next generation.

Though Care’s playing days are ending, his involvement in rugby will continue. Harlequins have confirmed that he will take on an ambassadorial role, working closely with the club and the Harlequins Foundation. “Danny embodies the values of our club,” said Laurie Dalrymple, Harlequins’ CEO. “We’re delighted that Danny will continue to play an important role in the future of Harlequins.”

On a personal level, Care’s departure marks the end of an era for both Harlequins and English rugby. His passion and flair for the game have been unmatched, and as Steve Borthwick, England’s head coach, put it, “Danny has been the heartbeat of every team he’s played for, lighting up stadiums with his passion and skill.”

Care’s legacy will undoubtedly influence those who come after him, and his ability to bring a touch of showbiz to rugby will not be forgotten. As he steps into retirement, all eyes are on the next chapter of his life, with fans hoping to hear more of his voice as a commentator or ambassador.