Rhys Webb retires from Wales duty months before Rugby World Cup: Live updates

Wales scrum-half Rhys Webb has become the third Welsh veteran to announce his retirement from international rugby just months ahead of the Rugby World Cup.

Webb revealed he is stepping back from the Test arena to enjoy his last few years as a professional player, making the announcement on social media 100 days before the World Cup kicks off in France.

The 34-year-old says he has accepted an offer to join a club abroad for next season, with his contract having come to an end at the Ospreys.

He follows fellow Wales veterans Alun Wyn Jones, 37, and Justin Tipuric, 33, in also calling time on their Test careers. All three had been named in Wales head coach Warren Gatland's extended World Cup training squad.

The news about Webb comes as a surprise as he shone under Warren Gatland in the Six Nations after winning back the Wales No. 9 jersey. He had been expected to battle it out with Cardiff's Tomos Williams for the starting jersey at the World Cup in France this autumn.

Rhys Webb's Wales retirement statement in full:

"Having the opportunity to play for Wales again, recently, has been a huge honour and I am proud to have been named as part of the World Cup training squad.

"However, whilst I would have relished the chance to end my career playing for a Welsh region, the present uncertainties and difficulties in Welsh rugby, meant there was little opportunity for a contract that offered security for the coming years, as I see out my professional career. As such, when the opportunity to play abroad arose, during the off season, enabling me to provide greater career security for myself and my family, I decided to accept the offer.

"I feel that, after achieving my goal of returning to the Wales set-up, it is the right time now for me