Parks makes way for next generation

The 33-year-old made his 67th Test appearance in last Saturday’s opening Six Nations defeat to England and was culpable for the decisive try as Charlie Hodgson charged down his kick.

The Cardiff Blues playmaker, who made his debut in 2004, has made way for the next generation, with Edinburgh captain Greig Laidlaw expected to start for Scotland in Sunday’s Test with Wales in Cardiff and uncapped Glasgow Warriors fly-half Duncan Weir set for a place on the replacements’ bench.

Parks had been contemplating retiring after the Rugby World Cup, when he was second choice behind Ruaridh Jackson, but the lure of the opening Six Nations game with England was too strong. However, he has now called time on his Test career, insisting the time is right.

He said: “I was thinking about it but the first game of the Six Nations was against England, the auld enemy, Jacko was injured and being able to play against England was huge for me as there was a sense of unfinished business.

“On reflection after the game, after talking it over with my family, girlfriend and close friends, I’ve come to the decision that now is the right time to retire from the international game.

“There are some really talented guys coming through – Jacko, Greig and Duncan – and although I’m sad to be finishing my international career, I have some fantastic memories of playing for Scotland and what that has meant to me. I’ve no regrets at what has been an amazing career for me.”