Scot Leslie in retirement shock

Scotland rugby centre John Leslie shocked his team-mates yesterday by announcing his intention to quit the international arena with immediate effect, just 18 months before the next World Cup.

Leslie, the 30-year-old Northampton player, cited the impending birth of his second child in October as one of the main reasons behind his decision, the timing of which has left the Scottish Rugby Union stunned.

Leslie would have been an integral part of coach Ian McGeechan's plans for next year's World Cup, which would have given him a chance to make up for missing the bulk of the 1999 event through injury. Leslie said: 'I want to commit more time to Northampton. Retiring from the Scotland set-up does not mean I am looking for an easier time.'

Leslie's decision has provided further ammunition for critics who believe the New Zealander should never have been invited to play for Scotland in the first place.

Scotland wingerwinger Kenny Logan has been dropped for Wasps' Zurich Premiership clash with Gloucester at Loftus Road tonight.

Logan has been named among the replacements by coach Warren Gatland, who brings in England international Paul Sampson.