FRANCOIS Hougaard has chosen to retire from international duty as he looks at possibly playing out “the rest of his career” at Worcester Warriors.

Director of rugby Alan Solomons confirmed the scrum-half’s decision to end his South Africa career and said it was a “major boost” for the Aviva Premiership outfit.

The 30-year-old has scored five tries in 46 appearances for his country since making his debut against Italy in 2009.

But Hougaard was axed from the Springbok squad after their 57-0 drumming at the hands of New Zealand in September.

His time away with South Africa has limited his availability for Worcester and he has arrived back at Sixways nursing injuries after the last two Rugby Championship campaigns.

Hougaard has established himself as a firm favourite with Worcester’s fans since joining the club in February 2016.

He was instrumental in guiding Warriors to safety in the past two seasons and highlighted his commitment to the club when he signed a new three-year deal last month.

With his future at the club secured, Solomons said Hougaard was now focusing his attentions on Worcester and completing a business course as he plans for life after rugby.

“It is a major boost for us that he has made that decision because it means he won’t be going away for international duty,” Solomons said.

“Francois had mentioned it (retiring from international rugby) and that’s his decision at the end of the day.

“He was contemplating focusing the rest of his career at Worcester.

“He is very happy here and I know that he is doing a business course as well for life after rugby which you have got to be prepared for.

“(The club's honorary education officer) Lynette Cutting assists all the players and does a great job.”

Hougaard has made 29 showings for Worcester, but has not featured in almost two months due to an ankle injury.

“I think Francois has got to the stage in his career where he is very happy, he loves the club and wants to play his rugby here," Solomons said.

“He will also have the opportunity to continue his studies as well.”

He added: “He will be very focused on Warriors so it will be fantastic that he will be available for us at all times.

“I think that’s a big positive going into next season.”

Solomons said Hougaard has yet to return to train since hobbling off in Warriors’ defeat at London Irish in late February.

But he was optimistic about his chances of playing in Worcester’s final home game of the season against Harlequins a week on Saturday (3pm).

“I really am hopeful that he will be available,” Solomons said.

“The aim is that he will be fully integrated into the training next week.”