WORCESTER full-back Ben Hinshelwood has decided to leave the Scotland arena for 12 months to protect his long-term health.

The 28-year-old debated his decision to take a year off international rugby with his father.

The Warriors player has been restricted in training with his club due to a back problem he describes as "chronic" this season.

Hinshelwood consulted his father, Sandy, who played for Scotland in the late 1960s and early 1970s, over his future. He said: "I have spoken to my dad about it quite a bit and he feels it's the right thing to do.

"We will see how things are at the end of the year and, if there is a chance to play for Scotland again, then great. But I have to think about the rest of my life beyond rugby too."

But Hinshelwood, whose Scotland career was interrupted by a broken leg in 2003, concedes he had little option but to take a rest from the international scene.

He added: "I have a chronic back problem and I need to lessen my training workload rather than the inevitable increase which comes with international rugby and, for that reason, I am stepping down this year.

"I am getting physio every day at present and following a different weights programme to everyone else at the club.

"Basically, I am doing whatever I can to avoid aggravating my back in training."

But Scotland head coach Frank Hadden is confident he will be able to welcome back the full-back next year.

Hadden said: "I have discussed matters with Ben and I understand his situation.

"We would both hope that his back will be better and that we will be able to consider him next season."