Sanderson backs Lawes to force England return at 37 ahead of World Cup

Courtney Lawes is making a compelling case for an England comeback at 37, with Sale Sharks director of rugby Alex Sanderson declaring he would be “surprised” if the veteran forward is not recalled by Steve Borthwick this autumn ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Lawes stepped away from international rugby after the 2023 World Cup and spent a season with Brive before returning to the Gallagher Premiership with Sale. He has been capped 105 times by England and has made clear his ambition to add to that tally, and Sanderson is convinced the former England captain still operates at Test level.

“I can’t see him not making the squad,” Sanderson said at the Premiership launch at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium. “It’s probably on us playing well as a group and that will give him the platform.”

Sanderson was effusive about Lawes’ impact at Sale, describing a player who has thrown himself fully into the group rather than managing his workload. “He’s all in. We have to pull him back rather than raise him up,” he said. “He’s there for the group, not for himself. I’ve been hugely impressed, not just by that, but his altruistic nature.”

Team-mates have been equally struck. Tom Curry, who has lined up alongside Lawes for both England and the British and Irish Lions, said the lock is physically “the same, if not better”, and spoke of the calming influence and experience Lawes brings to the dressing room. Fly-half George Ford noted that Lawes has not missed a training session and barely makes an error, arguing that reliability and the ability to simplify situations under pressure are hallmarks of the very best players.

Lawes’ return to English rugby comes at a moment that suits both parties. England are navigating a difficult stretch in their World Cup cycle, and Borthwick has shifted tactically towards fielding a bigger blindside flanker — a profile that fits Lawes precisely.

Sanderson drew a comparison with Maro Itoje when assessing Lawes’ standing in the game. “I’ve had experience of other people of his calibre — Maro, for example,” he said. “The way he’s moving, the way he’s talking — I’d be surprised if he isn’t [in the squad].”

Curry’s comments carried a similar confidence. The flanker spoke like a man who does not expect to be sharing a back row with Lawes only in Sale colours next season, suggesting the 37-year-old’s England story may not yet be finished.