The 31-year-old second-row forward will continue to play for the north-east club with a view to returning to the international scene the following season.

Grimes said: Considering the physical demands of the sport, I feel that I need to take a step back from the international game at the moment, but still with a view to being available for selection in the future, particularly in the lead up to the next World Cup (France 2007) and Id also like to make it clear that this is a personal decision.

Grimes is now Scotlands third most capped player on 71, and the second most capped forward with only Gregor Townsend and Gordon Bulloch winners of more honours.

He was a key figure in Scotlands first ever victory against the Barbarians in his home town of Aberdeen in May.

Richie Dixon, the Scottish Rugby Unions interim director of rugby, said: Stuarts commitment to the international team has been unquestionable and we will certainly miss a player of his talent and experience in the coming season but fully respect his decision.