Former French league rugby players Courtney Lawes and Joe Marchant have recently re-entered the English Premiership with Sale Sharks, making them eligible again for England's national squad. However, redemption on the international stage is far from guaranteed. England's assistant coach Richard Wigglesworth has made it crystal clear: mere eligibility does not ensure a spot on the team.
Both Lawes and Marchant are tasked with proving their worth during the initial phases of the Premiership season if they aspire to be a part of England's setup for the upcoming Nations Championship in November. "We want as much quality as we can have in the league but they are going to have to go and play well," Wigglesworth expressed about the high standards expected.
"There are some good players in the room and to pick them you have to leave someone else out, so they would have to go over and above that, I would say."
The return of Lawes, in particular, could not be more timely. With impressive showings in preseason, and a World Cup looming in Australia next year, his versatility as both a lock and loose forward shines brightly. Wigglesworth himself, a veteran of 33 caps for England, lauded Lawes' return, citing his vast experience and legendary status within English rugby.
"It’s great to have Courtney back. He has unbelievable experience, is an England legend and has been flying in pre-season, as everyone is."
Further boosting Lawes' case for an international return is his undeniable drive, which Wigglesworth sees as a significant advantage. The seasoned player's commitment to making a successful comeback to international rugby underscores his ambition and may very well tilt selection decisions in his favor.
"I couldn’t have given up the chance of England because I didn’t play as much as loads of people," said Wigglesworth, reflecting on the opportunities that motivated players like Lawes seize. Clearly, Lawes' decision to leave France and rejoin the Premiership isn't just a professional move—it's a personal mission.
The upcoming matches in the Premiership will serve as a litmus test for both Lawes and Marchant, determining whether they will indeed wear the rose on their chests once more. Their performances will not only influence their own fates but will also send ripples through the selection strategy for the England squad as they prepare for the formidable challenges ahead.
