Wallabies Legend James Slipper Announces International Retirement After Historic 150th Cap Against All Blacks

Australian rugby icon James Slipper confirms retirement after record-breaking 150th Test cap, concluding his 16-year international career in final Wallabies showdown against New Zealand.

Australia's most-capped rugby international James Slipper will bring down the curtain on his illustrious 16-year career following this weekend's decisive Rugby Championship clash against arch-rivals New Zealand in Perth.

Career Highlights:

  • First Wallaby to reach 150 Test caps (2010-2025)
  • Four-time Rugby World Cup participant (2011-2023)
  • 15-time national team captain
  • Third player in rugby history to achieve 150 caps after Whitelock and Wyn Jones

Historic Milestone: The 36-year-old prop cemented his legacy during last week's Bledisloe Cup encounter, becoming Australia's first 150-cap player despite a narrow 24-22 loss to the All Blacks. Slipper's final international appearance will fittingly occur at Perth's Optus Stadium - the same venue where he debuted against England in 2010.

Leadership Legacy: Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt praised Slipper as "the ultimate team man," emphasizing his unparalleled durability through 15 different coaching regimes. "His ability to adapt across three World Cup cycles while maintaining world-class performance sets a new benchmark," Schmidt told reporters.

Championship Decider: Saturday's sold-out clash carries double significance as Australia (-4 points behind South Africa) attempts to claim their first Rugby Championship title since 2015. The All Blacks, needing a bonus-point win to retain the Bledisloe Cup, face a Wallabies squad motivated to send their veteran leader out in style.

Legacy Statement: "Wearing the gold jersey was my childhood dream," Slipper reflected. "From backyard games with my brothers to captaining my country, every moment has been an absolute privilege." The Gold Coast native's retirement marks the end of an era for Australian rugby, with his 150-cap record unlikely to be challenged soon.

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