George North has seen his season cruelly cut short after suffering a ruptured Achilles during Wales’ Guinness Six Nations defeat by Italy.

North, 31, was taken off with two minutes remaining as his side slumped to a fifth successive Six Nations loss this season. It saw Wales claim their first wooden spoon at the tournament since the 2003 edition.

It has now been confirmed that North suffered a serious ankle injury, with his Osprey and international career now over. “Ospreys can confirm that George North will miss the remainder of the season following surgery on a ruptured Achilles injury sustained whilst playing for Wales vs Italy,” Ospreys announced on Twitter/X.

“We’d like to thank George for his time at the club and wish him the best for the future.” North’s future had already been decided ahead of sustaining the crushing blow. He is due to join French side Provence this summer. The centre added: “Not everyone gets the fairytale ending.

“A ruptured Achilles wasn’t the way I wanted to bow out of international rugby. Still, I have loved every second. Can’t thank everyone enough for the support and kind messages. On the recovery train now.”

Ahead of his move to France, North will undergo intensive rehabilitation to return to the pitch. During a successful career, he won 121 caps – only Alun Wyn Jones and Gethin Jenkins have played more times for Wales – and scored 47 tries for his country.

He also helped Wales win four Six Nations titles, including two Grand Slams, while he also played in four World Cups. His international career has ended in frustration though, with North already giving his view on Warren Gatland’s future as boss.

“We spoke about it honestly,” North said about Wales’ tricky situation at the end of the Six Nations. “You have to be in these times. We know where we are as a squad.

“We know the age and the rotation we’re at at the moment. We’ve started that cycle earlier than a lot of other nations. We know the standard. The boys know the standard. ‘Gats’ drives that, the coaches drive that, but it’s going to take time for us to get there.

“I addressed the boys and said: ‘I leave my jersey in safe hands.’ There’s some serious talent coming through, and some real positives and some shining light. We’ve just got to give them time.”

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.