The 31-year-old, sevens rugby's all-time record points-scorer with 2,652 points from 70 tournaments having made his debut in the 1999-2000 International Rugby Board World Series as a teenager, made the decision after the Rugby Football Union decided not to offer him a new contract.

"It was really disappointing not to be offered a new contract with the England sevens team as it has been a hugely enjoyable part of my life for so many years," said Gollings, the only player to have taken part in all 11 World Series tournament.

"It is a shame I won't be able to fulfil my ambition of cracking the 3,000 points barrier or becoming all-time top try scorer, but I've been fortunate to enjoy as much as I have."

Gollings also played in two Rugby World Cup Sevens and three Commonwealth Games, winning a silver medal at Melbourne in 2006. 

"These decisions are never taken lightly and while we understand Ben's disappointment we felt that it was one that needed to be made to move the squad and our game forward over the coming seasons," said Ben Ryan, England's coach.

"It doesn't detract in any way from the terrific service Ben has given England over more than a decade at the highest level.

"His professionalism has set a high standard to match for all those who have trained and played alongside him.

"Ben was there from day one in 1999 when the World Sevens Series began and although he had spells with Newcastle and Quins [Harlequins] and overseas he kept on returning because of his love of the sevens game and the game has a lot of affection for him too."

Gollings, who had told insidethegames last month that he planned to continue until Rio 2016 as long as he felt physically able, admitted he was disappointed by the decision.

"It was a bit of a shock not to be given a new contract and it will take a few months to get my head around no longer being part of the England sevens squad," he said.

"But I understand their decision to look to younger players to take them forward and I wish the team and the boys the best of luck and have every faith in them that they can win the 2013 Rugby Sevens World Cup in Moscow.

"I'm 31 and as fit as I've ever been so feel I have a few more years rugby in me.

"I haven't yet decided what path to follow next.

"I'll have some time out and assess my options in England and also abroad."

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