Nic White, Wallaby number 875, has announced his retirement from international rugby, with his final appearance for the Wallabies scheduled for Saturday night. White will continue to play for the Western Force ahead of the Super Rugby AUS competition kicking off in September.
reflecting on his career, White expressed immense pride in representing Australia, stating, “Pulling on the gold jersey was a dream of mine when I was a young boy in Scone and to say I’ve done it 72 times, with one last crack on Saturday night, is something I’m incredibly proud of and a privilege I’ve never taken for granted.” He highlighted the significant impact rugby has had on his life, providing him with “unbelievable memories, some lifelong friendships and had the opportunity to see the world.”
White believes it is the opportune moment to step aside from the Wallabies, citing the strong competition for the scrum-half position and the emergence of promising young talent. He emphasized the importance of these emerging players gaining experience in readiness for the 2027 home Rugby World Cup. “There’s been great competition for the nine jersey here in the Wallabies for a number of years and it feels like the right time to pass on the baton with some more good young players coming through who will need time in the saddle leading into what’s going to be an unbelievable experience of a home Rugby World Cup in 2027,” he stated.
He also conveyed his gratitude to the Western Force for their support as his family relocated west nearly two years ago. “In the meantime, I’ll keep working hard with the Western Force, who have been an incredible support for me and my family as we moved west nearly two years ago.” White plans to retire from rugby entirely at the end of the year to dedicate more time to his wife, Mel, and their three sons, Leo, Sonny, and Vinnie. “Hanging up the boots for good at the end of the year will also allow me to spend more time with my wife Mel and three boys Leo, Sonny and Vinnie – which is something I’m massively looking forward to.”
White anticipates celebrating his career with supporters at various venues, including the Maitland Blacks clubhouse, Assembly in Canberra, and the Brisbane Hotel in Perth.
Wallabies Head Coach Joe Schmidt lauded White’s contribution, describing him as “a great man to have in a squad” who consistently prioritizes the team. “Frist and foremost Nic is a great man to have in a squad. He’s team first all the time and has been at the top of the game for over a decade,” Schmidt commented. He further praised White’s competitive spirit, noting, “Having coached against Whitey, and now worked with him in the Wallabies habitat, he’s the ultimate competitor.” Schmidt concluded by wishing White and his family well in their future endeavors, acknowledging the significance of the gold jersey to White. “I know how much pulling on the gold jersey means to him and on behalf of the current group we wish him and his family all the best for the next chapter.”