England captain Jamie Peacock has announced his retirement from international rugby league with immediate effect.

However, Peacock will continue to play for Leeds, having recently signed a new two-year contract with the world club champions.

But his decision means Peacock, 35 in December, has given up on leading England into next year’s World Cup, where they are co-hosts.

The first international match he will miss is Wednesday’s second game against the Exiles, with England coach Steve McNamara having to find a new captain for the game against the pick of the Super League’s ‘foreign legion’.

Peacock, who made his England debut against Russia in the 2000 World Cup and led England for the last time in their 18-10 win over the Exiles earlier this month, said he made his mind up to retire from international duty in January.

“The last achievement I felt I could have with England would be to right the wrong and beat the Exiles team and this has happened,” he said in a statement released through the Rugby Football League.

“To play and captain your country is the highest honour within the game and this was a decision that was not taken lightly.

“In 2000, when I made my debut, it was beyond my wildest ambition and dreams that I would then go onto represent my country nearly 50 times and captain them for seven years.

“I felt that the time would be right for me to step down and solely concentrate on playing for my club.”