Percy calls it a day

After becoming the first South Africa international to receive 100 caps, Percy Montgomery has decided to retire from International rugby.

The 34-year-old played a major role in helping the Springboks lift the World Cup in France and has made 102 test appearances for the country, wracking up 893 points.

He commented, “I have had many memorable moments in a Springbok jersey and it has been a privilege to play for my country and to go around the world playing against so many great players of other countries. There have been plenty of highs and lows in my career, and it’s been an honour to wear the Springbok jersey. But it is time to go.”

Montgomery is 100 and out

South Africa full-back Percy Montgomery has been dropped to the bench for South Africa’s upcoming match against Australia, less than a week after winning his 100th cap.

The 34-year-old is one of the players that has paid the price after the disappointing 19-0 defeat to New Zealand and is replaced by Conrad Jantjes.

The full line-ups read:

South Africa: Conrad Jantjes; JP Pietersen, Adrian Jacobs, Jean de Villiers, Jongi Nokwe; Butch James, Fourie du Preez; Pierre Spies, Juan Smith, Schalk Burger; Victor Matfield (capt), Andries Bekker, CJ van der Linde, Bismarck du Plessis, Tendai Mtawarira.
Replacements: Adriaan Strauss, Brian Mujati, Joe van Niekerk, Luke Watson, Ricky Januarie, Frans Steyn, Percy Montgomery.

Australia: Drew Mitchell, Peter Hynes, Stirling Mortlock (capt), Berrick Barnes, 11. Lote Tuqiri, Matt Giteau, Sam Cordingley, Wycliff Palu, George Smith, Rocky Elsom, Daniel Vickerman, James Horwill, Matt Dunning, Stephen Moore, Benn Robinson.
Replacements: Tatafu Polota-Nau, Al Baxter, Hugh McMeniman, Phil Waugh, Brett Sheehan, Timana Tahu, Ryan Cross