Courtney Lawes Aims for England Comeback After Signing with Sale Sharks
Courtney Lawes has received strong backing to reclaim his place in the England squad following his signing with Sale Sharks on a one-year deal. The veteran player, who has spent the last two seasons with Brive in France’s ProD2, expressed his desire to return to international rugby if the opportunity arises. At nearly 38 years old, Lawes retired from Test rugby after the 2023 World Cup in France, yet he remains confident in his ability to compete at the highest level. Sale’s director of rugby, Alex Sanderson, shares this belief, stating, "I don’t think we’d have signed him if he was just a player who wanted a paycheck. He’s still got the ability and experience to play some great rugby over the next season, if not the next couple." Sanderson praised Lawes for his dynamic play and leadership qualities, emphasizing his experience as a former England captain and his potential to contribute significantly to the team’s success. Lawes himself noted, "My body feels good and I’m still performing at a high level... I want to make the most of it while I can." As Lawes gears up for his new role, Sale Sharks are facing a potential manpower crisis ahead of their Champions Cup quarter-final against Leinster. Injuries have sidelined key players Luke Cowan-Dickie and Bevan Rodd for the season, while Nathan Jibulu awaits the outcome of a disciplinary hearing for a biting incident during Sale’s 26-17 victory over Harlequins. With Tom and Ben Curry also unavailable, Sale's forward options are dwindling. Jibulu, a hooker in contention for the England summer tour, has drawn praise from Sanderson, who believes he has the attributes to succeed at the international level.
Source: The Guardian Sport - 2026-04-07