Scotland Wheelchair player David Birtles has made the decision to retire from international rugby league.

David made his debut for the Bravehearts in 2017 and earned 16 caps. He featured in two World Cups and was the oldest player competing in both.

Commenting on his decision to retire, David said:

It was a very hard decision to retire, but I have to be honest with myself. My condition, limb girdle muscular dystrophy, has caused less movement in parts of my upper body as well as my legs. My personal highlights in a Scotland jersey included winning my first cap in 2017 and collecting my first medal for competing in the Celtic Cup. I know that wheelchair rugby league is on the up, which made it even harder to retire, but I know it is the right decision. I would like to thank my family for their support, as well as my teammates and coaches for everything they have done for me throughout their career.

Scotland Wheelchair Head Coach Mark Roughsedge added:

I would like to thank David for all his efforts during his time playing for Scotland. I have loved working with him and he is someone who displays all of the attributes expected of a Braveheart. He is a true ambassador of the sport and has always represented Scotland positively. I wish him all the best and hope that we will see him visit one of our camps in the near future.