Former England national team captain Courtney Lawes made a comeback to the Premiership, joining Sale Sharks. Upon his move to Sale, Lawes also made a bold claim, unretiring himself from International rugby. This unretiring means it’s only up to Lawes to prove himself and return to the national team.
Indeed, it’s a great few months ahead as England prepare to face Ireland, Scotland and Wales this April. The Red Roses are also pushing hard to build a strong team and win the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
With so much to play for in the year to come, one of their legends has opened the door to a comeback following the 2023 World Cup heartbreak. Courtney is ready for an England comeback, but what does this mean to the team?
WILL COURTNEY LAWES’ COMEBACK INSPIRE ENGLAND?
Over the years, most successful teams have had several veterans on their side. For the Springboks side that won the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France, it was Deon Fourie, the oldest at 36, who provided the leadership that comes with age. Other young players like Cheslin Kolbe and Handre Pollard went on to shine, but with Fourie in the mix, it all balanced out.
Going for the All Blacks that finished second, veteran lock Sam Whitelock, who pushed the youngster to the final. Even if these older players might not play so many minutes, they have proved to be key behind the scenes.
Now, at 37, Courtney is the pillar England has been missing over the years. He is not a player with a lot of talk to his name; however, he is the rod in the dressing room that most coaches would welcome.
“I’m officially un-retiring from international duty, and I’d love to play for England again, but first and foremost, I want to play well for Sale, and we’ll see what happens after that,” Lawes said, expressing his love to return to the national team.
EVEN SALE COACH IS EAGER TO WORK WITH COURTNEY LAWES
After the news broke, Sanderson spoke highly of Courtney’s professionalism and how much he will help the Sale Sharks.
“Courtney is the kind of player and person that suits this club. He’s robust, dynamic around the park, and he hits hard, but he has a fantastic skillset that means he’s so much more than just a banger.” Sanserson said.
“I can’t wait to see him train and play with us, but from a coaching perspective, I’m really looking forward to working with someone I’ve heard so many good things about. Courtney believes in what we’re doing and wants to be part of the club. He’s coming back to try and win trophies and play international rugby again, and he believes he can do that with us,” he continued.
COURTNEY LAWES MIGHT BE A SPARK. ENGLAND WANTED
Indeed, with all the experience at the top level, Courtney Lawes was a piece England needed. Even the man himself believes that he has not lost his touch and will contribute greatly.
“Since I have been out here in France, I have had a lot more responsibility in terms of ball-carrying, lineout defence and turnovers. My skills have not diminished. If anything, I am getting more experience in lots of areas,” Courtney Lawes said.