He made his first appearance for the England Sevens in Paris in 2004, when still at Leeds, and has since represented England at 29 Sevens World Series events and two Rugby World Cup Sevens tournaments.

He was part of the team that lifted World Series titles in Wellington in 2008 and 2013, London in 2008 and Dubai in 2011, as well as reaching the Rugby World Cup Sevens' final in Moscow in June this year.

He signed a full-time contract with the team in 2011 and captained the side last season.

Rob Vickerman helped England to a third place finish in the opening event of this season's World Sevens Series in Australia earlier this year, his only appearance ©Getty Images


The 28-year-old leaves with the best wishes of management and teammates for his hard work and leadership over the last two-and-a-half years, they claimed.

On the news of his departure, Vickerman tweeted: "Tough leaving @Official_RFU but made easier with backing of family and friends.

"Amazing lifestyle, journey and incredible memories thanks to all that I have met and have helped me.

"Not sure what's next up but if it's a tenth as fun and rewarding I'll be a lucky man."

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


Related stories
December 2013: Inspired South Africa seal World Sevens Series title with dramatic comeback
December 2013: Tributes paid to Mandela at Rugby Sevens World Series event
November 2013: Fiji win first Emirates Dubai title in 15 years
October 2013: All Blacks Sevens pick up where they left off last season with victory at Gold Coast
October 2013: Defending champions New Zealand off to a flier as Rugby Sevens World Series gets underway Down Under