Courtney Lawes hasn’t ruled out one last roar with the British and Irish Lions.
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The five-cap Lion, who left Northampton Saints over the summer to join Pro D2 outfit Brive, believes he’s a better player now than he was last season—despite stepping away from England duty after the 2023 World Cup.
Speaking to TNT Sports, where he featured as a pundit during the Autumn Nations Series, Courtney Lawes made his ambitions crystal clear to Lions head coach Andy Farrell.
“I actually feel that I’m a better player than I was at the end of last season,” Courtney Lawes said.
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“I’m carrying probably two, three times as much as I was in the Premiership, just because my roles have changed. At the minute, I’m averaging two or three turnovers a game, and because the refereeing is – shall we say – different, you have to be squeaky clean and also very alert to breakdowns and things like that.
“A lot of my game is developing because I’ve been challenged to change my game slightly from what it was in the previous few years in my role at Saints.
“It’s been great for me, and I’d love to get the opportunity to actually see if I have become better at Test level. I’m always going to back myself, I don’t know if I’ll actually get the opportunity to go out to Australia with the Lions, but if I do I’ll be buzzing for it.”
Still in the Lions conversation
Courtney Lawes’ performances for Northampton last season were so strong that, even at 35 and playing in France’s second division, he remains a contender for the tour to Australia next summer. With his versatility, leadership, and ever-evolving skillset, don’t count him out just yet.
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Rugby Transfer Round-Up:
Ilona Maher: Eagle has landed
Bristol Bears have secured a major coup for 2025, with USA Eagles star Ilona Maher set to join the club on a three-month deal starting in January.
At just 28, Maher is one of rugby’s biggest names. The Olympic bronze medallist, who boasts over 7 million social media followers, has arrived in the West Country to meet her new teammates and begin training this week. She’ll return home until the New Year, but her sights are firmly set on making a mark in 2025.
Ollie Lawrence: Bath Hold Their Ground
The ongoing saga surrounding Ollie Lawrence’s future appears to be nearing its end, with Bath Rugby confident of keeping the powerhouse centre at The Rec.
Reports from Mail Online suggest that Lawrence is locked in talks with the club, and while nothing is set in stone, Bath seem optimistic about fending off interest from Premiership rivals Harlequins.
The Quins had been rumoured to make a play for Lawrence, but it now looks like Bath have won this key battle. Full story.
Stephan Lewies: Quins’ Leader Stays Put
Harlequins fans can breathe a sigh of relief as captain Stephan Lewies has penned a contract extension to remain at The Stoop.
Since joining in 2019, the South African second-row has become a cornerstone of the Quins’ pack, making 76 appearances and famously captaining the side to their unforgettable 2021 Premiership triumph.
Lewies has cemented his status as a fan favourite and looks set to lead the team for seasons to come.
Dom Young: Rugby League Star Linked to Union Switch
Could England rugby league flyer Dom Young make the leap to the 15-a-side game?
Standing at an imposing 6ft 7in and weighing 17 stone, Young is reportedly on Steve Borthwick’s radar as the England boss eyes a cross-code coup.
The 23-year-old NRL sensation has been tearing up the league with his electrifying pace and prolific try-scoring ability, leading to speculation about a switch to rugby union. If the rumours are true, Young could become one of the most exciting code-hopping talents in recent years.
Max Malins: Top 14 Temptation
The buzz around Max Malins continues to grow as the Bristol Bears winger lights up the Premiership.
After leaving Saracens in 2023, Malins has thrived at Ashton Gate, but his omission from England’s recent squads could shake things up. With his contract expiring next summer, French giants Toulouse are said to be circling.
Malins, however, is holding out hope for an England recall ahead of the 2025 Six Nations before making a final decision. Full story.
George Ford: Sale Extension Imminent
Despite whispers of a move to France, George Ford is expected to stay put at Sale Sharks.
The 98-cap England veteran had reportedly attracted interest from Clermont Auvergne, but sources close to the player suggest he’s now focused on extending his stay at the AJ Bell Stadium.
Having earned an Enhanced EPS contract from the RFU, Ford remains a key figure for both club and country.
Jamie Hodgson: Joins Bristol Bears
Bristol Bears have signed Scotland international lock Jamie Hodgson on a short-term loan.
Hodgson, who temporarily leaves United Rugby Championship side Edinburgh, joins the Bears amid a shortage in the second row position with Joe Batley, Josh Caulfield, Steele Barker and George Taylor all out due to injury. Full story.
Jordan Petaia: From Rugby to NFL
Wallabies back Jordan Petaia has shocked the rugby world by announcing his move to pursue an NFL career through the International Player Pathway program.
The explosive 23-year-old, who debuted for Australia at the 2019 Rugby World Cup, is set to swap the rugby field for the gridiron. Known for his dynamic running and aerial prowess, Petaia could be a major hit in American football. Full story.
Test Your Rugby Knowledge: Top 17 Male Point Scorers Quiz
Whether they dominated with ice-cool penalty kicks, pinpoint conversions, or electrifying tries, these players have made their mark on the game.
You’ve got four minutes on the clock—can you list them all? Grab a pen, set the timer, and let’s see if you’ve got what it takes to ace this ultimate rugby challenge!
