Courtney Lawes answers Lions question after Premiership title triumph
Courtney Lawes playing for the British & Irish Lions.
Retired England back-row Courtney Lawes insists he would “love to be involved” with the British and Irish Lions on their upcoming tour to Australia in 2025.
The 35-year-old, who hung up his international boots for his country after the 2023 Rugby World Cup, has showed no signs of slowing down in terms of form at club level.
In face, the superb Lawes led Northampton to the Premiership title on Saturday as they got the better of Bath at Twickenham, winning 25-21 in a pulsating domestic finale.
17 years at Saints
The result was the perfect way for the blindside flanker to bid farewell to the Saints after 17 years of service, as he moves to Pro D2 side Brive ahead of the 2024/25 season.
However, the veteran has not ruled out featuring for the Lions and, judging on his form since focussing solely on club duty, he would be very much in the selection frame.
“I’d love to be involved with the Lions again,” said Lawes, who played on the 2017 and 2021 tours to New Zealand and South Africa where he made five Test appearances.
“The reason I retired from international rugby is that I didn’t want to be away every couple of months for months on end.
“The Lions is for two months, I can bring my family out and we can have a good time. Having said that, I’m not expecting it. But if I do get that opportunity I’d be there.”
The Lions will be coached by Ireland boss Andy Farrell as they look to bounce back from a 2-1 series defeat to the Springboks in 2021, with Lawes starting all of those Tests.
There will no doubt be fierce competition for touring places for the 2025 squad that will travel to Australia, but there is no doubt the Saints legend looks rejuvenate of late.
Northampton director of rugby Phil Dowson has nothing but praise for the flanker’s superb form and also hailed how Lawes has mentored the youngsters at the Saints.
“Loads has been written about Courtney’s playing ability and the way he’s evolved in the game. He’s always had the desire and mentality to get better,” he said on Saturday.
Had a huge impact
“But more importantly this season is how much he’s added to our young group. Courts has been there and done that on the biggest stages. Players look to him and that is something that is intangible.
“It’s had a huge impact on the players around the group. He has allowed them to grow.”
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