Australia flanker George Smith believes now is the right time to finish his international career after Saturday’s loss to British & Irish Lions.
Smith was recalled to the Wallabies squad after first Test defeat to the Lions in Brisbane and although overlooked for the second match he was handed his chance in the decider.
Coach Robbie Deans opted to start the veteran, who was making his first Test appearance since announcing his retirement from international rugby in February 2010.
The 33-year-old did not get the fairy-tale ending he had hoped for as the Lions stormed to a convincing 41-16 victory to seal the series win at the ANZ Stadium in Sydney.
The Brumbies man also had to leave the field in the opening stages on Saturday after clashing heads with Lions hooker Richard Hibbard, although he recovered to return later.
The former Toulon man insists that it is the right time to bring an end to his 111-Test match career and he will now look to focus on helping the Brumbies to win the Super League title before returning to his Japanese club Suntory Sungoliath.
Smith said: “Obviously I’m disappointed and devastated with the result. I didn’t envisage this result to happen.
“It obviously affected me. You saw me snake dancing off the field. I passed the (concussion) tests that were required within those five minutes and I got out there.
“I’ve had a great career.
“I’m very fortunate to have been considered for this series as well.
“I think it’s time for the young guys and the guys who have been working hard within Australian rugby to have a chance.”
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