Importance Score: 35 / 100 🔵
Courtney Lawes: From Fearsome Rival to Valued Teammate and Potential Lions Selection
Reflecting on my memorable tenure at Northampton Saints, I witnessed firsthand the transformation of Courtney Lawes from a formidable adversary on the England rugby team to a respected teammate and close confidant. Our shared journey in rugby, from facing off as opponents to potentially reuniting for the British and Irish Lions tour, highlights Courtney’s exceptional career.
Early Encounters and Mutual Respect
While Courtney and I were acquainted through our shared agent, facing him on the rugby pitch in a Wales jersey was always a daunting prospect. As a fly-half, I often found myself in the firing line of his signature, impactful tackles. Despite these fierce on-field clashes, a mutual respect grew between us.
A significant milestone in our careers occurred in 2022 when we had the honor of captaining Wales and England respectively in a Six Nations match, both while representing Northampton Saints. This was a proud moment for us and the club, showcasing the leadership qualities within the Saints’ ranks.
Leadership Styles and Playing Excellence
Courtney embodies a contrasting leadership style to my own. He is more reserved and values his personal space. However, collaborating with him revealed the true extent of his rugby prowess. He is, simply put, an outstanding player. Now, our careers have taken another parallel turn as we both find ourselves playing club rugby in France.
Lions Tour Symmetry and Future Prospects
Our paths first converged as colleagues on the 2017 Lions tour to New Zealand. Courtney featured in a couple of games as a replacement during the drawn Test series against the All Blacks.
My role on that tour was less glamorous, focused on supporting the team from the sidelines. Fast forward eight years, and I firmly believe Courtney still possesses the ability to contribute to the Lions this summer, despite currently playing in the French second division with Brive. He shares this confidence.
Courtney Lawes’ Lions Ambitions
“I’m realistic, but I genuinely believe that if given the chance, I can still perform at that level, and I would relish the opportunity,” Courtney stated regarding his Lions aspirations on my podcast, A Load of BS on Sport.
“I truly believe I could make a significant contribution. I’ve openly said that if the Lions needed me, I would be more than ready. I would be excited to go to Australia, prove my capabilities again, and give it my all.”
“If selected, even just to get my foot in the door, I’m confident I could play my way into the Test team. Why not aim high?”
“I’m involved in carrying the ball much more these days, which I enjoy. Overall, I feel my game is in good shape.”
Lions Coaching Staff and Player Consideration
Andy Farrell, the head coach for the upcoming Lions tour to Australia, recently announced his assistant coaches, indicating that players based in France, including Courtney, myself, and Farrell’s son Owen, would be considered for selection. While I remain grounded about my own chances, Courtney presents a different case.
He stands out as one of the few players capable of maintaining elite performance on a Lions tour even while competing in the French second division. His performances for Brive this season have been exceptional, as they strive for promotion to the Top 14.
The Lions Environment and Player Quality
“The Lions’ success hinges on the quality of players assembled,” Courtney observed. “I recall the intensity of the first training session in New Zealand.
“The speed of play and decision-making was incredible. Strategies were quickly grasped, adapted, and elevated. It’s simply a testament to the high caliber of players involved.”
“You are genuinely playing alongside the best players from across the Northern Hemisphere. It’s an extraordinary experience.”
Back-Row Competition and Courtney’s Seniority
With over 100 England caps and two prior Lions tours, Courtney’s international pedigree and experience are undeniable.
The competition for back-row places on the Lions tour is fierce. Talented players such as Tom Curry, Jac Morgan, Josh van der Flier, Rory Darge, and many others are in contention, presenting Farrell with difficult selection choices.
Jack Willis, another England player based in France, is also demonstrating exceptional form for Toulouse, although he is currently unavailable for England selection.
Courtney Lawes: The Dominant Force at Northampton
Knowing Courtney as well as I do, I am certain he would excel against the Wallabies. At Northampton, Courtney was the central figure – the dominant personality in the team environment. He commanded considerable space in the changing room, reflecting his seniority.
The locker allocation at Northampton was based on seniority, with Courtney occupying the top spot – the Mayfair equivalent on the Monopoly board. Upon joining in 2018, my prior Wales and Lions experience afforded me a slightly elevated position in the hierarchy, placing me on Park Lane!
Leadership Alignment and Team Success
“A crucial element in the successful teams I’ve been part of is the strong alignment between the leadership group and the coaching staff,” Courtney explained.
“For instance, Eddie Jones would consult with Dylan Hartley and other leaders to ensure everyone was on the same page regarding the team’s direction and objectives. It’s about finding common ground between coaches’ vision and players’ input.”
“Our previous season at Saints exemplified this, with a robust leadership group including many players now representing England. We also had a young coaching team who were receptive to our input.”
Courtney’s Leadership and On-Field Presence
Courtney, who celebrated a Premiership title in his final season with Northampton last summer, may not be a vocal orator, but his leadership is constant and impactful.
He commands respect both on and off the field, a fact highlighted when young Henry Pollock learned this firsthand during a training session.
Henry Pollock’s Emerging Talent and Training Ground Lesson
Pollock, still only 20, is experiencing a breakthrough season. He scored two tries on his England debut against Wales in the Six Nations and delivered a remarkable try against Sale, showcasing his talent.
However, Pollock’s attempt to outmaneuver Courtney during a non-contact training session at Saints last season, by executing a hand-off, was perhaps ill-advised.
Such actions are generally frowned upon at both club and international levels, potentially causing friction and gossip.
Courtney’s Perspective on Pollock’s Confidence
“Henry faces some teasing because he is very self-assured,” Courtney commented. “But he is genuinely passionate about rugby, unlike me – I am less consumed by it. I might watch international matches if my schedule allows.”
“He’s a true rugby enthusiast, which is positive. And he’s undeniably talented. He is aware of his abilities, and the lads playfully give him stick for it.”
“I tried to temper his exuberance slightly, but I wasn’t offended by his actions. He’s a young player coming through, and I wouldn’t want to discourage him. His confidence doesn’t bother me as long as he performs on the weekend. And he is currently performing very well, so credit to him.”
Generational Shift and Lasting Legacy
Pollock represents a new generation in English rugby, possessing undeniable talent. He is distinctly different in era and playing style compared to Courtney.
However, the Northampton legend’s career is far from over, and there remains a strong possibility we will see him in Australia in July and August for the Lions tour. Don’t underestimate the enduring impact of experience!
Listen to A Load of BS on Sport with Dan Biggar and Daniel Ross on Spotify.