She scored 18 tries in 63 caps since making her international debut seven years ago, featuring in two World Cup finals.

“After seven years of playing rugby for England and over 15 years of rugby I feel it is the right time to hang up my boots,” said Spencer who finished on a high as her pick-and-drive set up Maggie Alphonsi for the final try against Ireland in Athlone.

“Losing two World Cup finals was incredibly gutting at the time, but looking back they are certainly very proud moments.

“Beating the world champions New Zealand at Twickenham in November 2009 was probably one of the stand-out moments of my career, as was beating France in France in 2006 after two years of losing to them.”

Head coach Gary Street was the first to praise Spencer for her leadership during her time with England.

“Catherine is one of the great players in the modern era whose physical presence dominated many games,” said Street who has been in charge of England since 2007.

“She captained my first game in charge for England and developed her captaincy skills culminating in an outstanding effort, on and off the pitch, during the World Cup.”