George North delays retirement to face Wales for Barbarians at Twickenham

George North will come out of retirement for one last appearance when the Barbarians face Wales at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham on 27 June, in what will be the 34-year-old’s farewell to professional rugby.

North announced his retirement from the game in April, but accepted an invitation to represent the Barbarians for the first time — against the nation he served for 16 years, earning 121 caps and scoring 47 tries. He will join the Barbarians squad after their clash against South Africa in Port Elizabeth this weekend.

“It’s always been a dream of mine to play for the Barbarians so to be invited now, for a game at Twickenham, against Wales is just incredible,” North said. “I have been so privileged to enjoy the career that I have had, and I have so many unforgettable memories from Wales and friendships to last a lifetime. So to go out against my country, with some of my friends and teammates playing is so special.”

North added that the prospect of lining up alongside some of the world’s best players in the famous Barbarians spirit was something he simply could not turn down.

Across a career that began with the Scarlets before taking him to Northampton Saints, the Ospreys, and most recently Provence in France, North helped Wales to four Six Nations titles, including two Grand Slams. He also toured twice with the British & Irish Lions.

His Provence teammate Izack Rodda is also named in the current Barbarians squad, meaning North will have a familiar face alongside him for his final outing.

The match represents a rare chance for Welsh supporters to see one of their most celebrated backs one last time — and for North, a fitting send-off on one of rugby’s most storied stages.