Hooker Neil Budworth to quit Wales after World Cup

Wales hooker Neil Budworth will retire from international rugby league after the World Cup.

The 31-year old has won 16 caps after making his debut against England in 2009.

Wigan-born Budworth qualified for Wales under the residency rule after a three-year spell with the Celtic Crusaders.

"I've enjoyed coming back to play for Wales Rugby League over the last five years, it's been the pinnacle of my career," he said.

"But this is my last year with Wales Rugby League. I'm going to retire from the international game after this and spend a bit of time with my partner in Australia."

Budworth, a member of the Wales side which won the European Cup in 2009 and 2010, has also played for London Broncos and Mackay Cutters and is currently with Moranbah Miners in Australia.

Wales, who face the Cook Islands in Neath on Sunday, are already out of the Rugby League World Cup following defeats to Italy and the United States.