Three England players retire

England flanker Maggie Alphonsi, second row Jo McGilchrist and wing Kat Merchant (pictured), all of whom started England’s 21-9 World Cup final victory over Canada earlier this month, end their international careers with immediate effect. Alphonsi, 30, one of world rugby’s best known female players, made her international debut back in 2003 against the USA. Since then, she has gone on to play in three Rugby World Cups and one Rugby World Cup Sevens.Read more about Three England players retire