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Ireland's Murphy quits Tests

London - Fullback Geordan Murphy has retired from international rugby for good after missing out on Ireland's tour of New Zealand.

After the World Cup in New Zealand, Murphy declined to be part of Ireland's squad for the first time since his 2000 debut, but made himself available as an emergency substitute during the Six Nations. When he wasn't summoned for the three-Test tour of New Zealand on Monday, the 34-year-old Murphy announced his retirement.

"I am not in and you know when it's time to hang up your boots at any level," Murphy told the Leicester Mercury. "I have had some tremendous memories with the squad but it is time for some young lads to come in and prepare for the next World Cup."

Murphy was capped 72 times for Ireland, scoring 18 tries, and played twice for the 2005 British and Irish Lions.

He will captain Leicester in the English Premiership final against Harlequins on Saturday.

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