Scotland's most-capped prop Euan ­Murray, who refuses to play on Sundays due to his religious beliefs, on Monday announced his retirement from international rugby just four months before the World Cup.

Murray, 34, has long been regarded as one of Scotland's top-class ­players but his decision not to play on the Sabbath due to his stringent religious beliefs has caused selection issues.

And with his wife Sarah now expecting their third child, the Glasgow ­Warrior has decided to step aside and allow Scotland head coach Vern Cotter time to make plans for his replacement.

Murray has appeared 66 times for his country, more than any other tighthead prop.