Nathan Rice announces international retirement
BCiB Australian Jackaroos veteran Nathan Rice has announced his international retirement, effective at the end of the 2019 Multi-Nations.
Rice, 40, made his debut for Australia in 2004, before going on to amass 271 caps across 16 years for his country, including three Commonwealth Games, one World Championship and four Asia Pacific Championships.
Originally from Launceston, Tasmania, Rice will fulfil his selection in the Australian squad for the 2019 Multi-Nations (November 18-24), before bowing out in the green and gold.
Currently of Club Helensvale in Queensland, Rice has enjoyed a decorated international career, with four Commonwealth Games medals and two World Championship medals to his name, along with three Asia Pacific Championship gold medals, with the most recent coming at the 2019 edition on the Gold Coast.
Rice’s decision allows him to spend more time with his wife Kirsty, and two children Levi and Mia, away from the rigours of the Jackaroos schedule.
His announcement comes after Karen Murphy signalled the end of her illustrious international career last week, with both players to represent Australia together for the last time at the 2019 Multi-Nations.
Nathan Rice
DOB: 7/6/1979 (40)
Club: Club Helensvale
State: QLD
Cap number: 118
Caps for Australia: 271*
Debut: 2004 (Wales Test)
Commonwealth Games Medals: Bronze – Pairs (Melbourne, 2006), Silver – Fours (Glasgow, 2014), Silver – Triples, Fours (Gold Coast, 2018)
World Championship Medals: Bronze – Pairs, Silver – Fours (Christchurch, 2008)
