"Miss the boys" - England forward Courtney Lawes will quit rugby for completely left-field new career

Monday, 23 October 2023 at 12:16

byRugby Rucker

In a monumental announcement reminiscent of an England rugby legend's swan song, vice-captain Courtney Lawes has revealed his decision to bid farewell to his international duties at the culmination of the upcoming Rugby World Cup.

At 34 years of age, Lawes boasts an illustrious career that includes participation in four Rugby World Cups and two memorable British and Irish Lions tours. In addition, he joins the exclusive club of just five Englishmen who have earned the prestigious honor of being capped 100 times for their country.

“This was my last World Cup,” Lawes said. “The kids are at that age where they need their dad around. It will be good to be with them more, to provide some well needed structure to the mob.

“It’s a bit of an end of an era, but it’s been a real honour for me to represent England for so long. I haven’t told Steve [Borthwick] yet, but I will let him know. But I’ve said to the boys, anyone that’s asked. I think it’s time. I’ve done four World Cups, so I’m pretty happy with that.

“I think, as hard as it is being away from your family and stuff like that, you almost have another family. You really feel like that, especially when you’re away in camps like World Cup camps. It’s five months, staying with your brothers.

"I’ll definitely miss the boys, the banter and all the stuff we get up to when we’re not training. I’ll miss the hard work as well. And I’ll definitely miss pulling the jersey on and giving it everything.”

While he continues to represent Northampton Saints on the field, the forward has diligently been preparing for his post-rugby life. He's gearing up to take a more hands-on role in the world of property development alongside his wife, who is also a director in their company, CLL Property.

Lawes doesn't have plans to venture into coaching or pursue a career in the media industry. The couple tied the knot in a lavish ceremony back in July 2015 and are now proud parents of four children.

In addition to their real estate endeavors, Jessica manages a blog known as The Mum Club. This website offers valuable parenting guidance, covering topics ranging from essential baby products to surviving long-haul flights with toddlers.

Join our Breaking News and Top Stories WhatsApp community

Join our Breaking News and Top Stories WhatsApp community for all the latest news direct to your phone.

To join you need to have WhatsApp on your device. All you need to do is choose which community you want to join, click on the link and press 'join community'.

No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the RUCK team.

We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners.

If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN

“Led England at a tough time” – Nigel Owens ranks the top five captains he has refereed

The popular referee selected his picks for Wales Online, but set out at the start that he wouldn't be picking any Welshman in his selection.

"I am not going to include any Welsh players on my list because I haven’t refereed them in international matches.

"Anyway, these are my top Test skippers ranked, Welshmen aside."

NIGEL OWENS: MY TOP 5 CAPTAINS

#5. Chris Robshaw (England)

The flanker is a former English rugby union player who captained the national team from 2012 to 2015.

Known for his exceptional work rate and leadership skills, Robshaw was a dynamic flanker who made a significant impact on the field. He enjoyed a successful club career with Harlequins, where he played for over a decade. Robshaw's dedication and commitment to the sport earned him numerous accolades and the respect of his peers.

Off the field, he is admired for his philanthropic efforts, using his platform to support various charitable causes.

Owens said: "Some people will be surprised at this one to start off. His misfortune was perhaps to be leading England during a difficult time, but he always gave everything for the cause, encouraging others to follow suit, and he was a nice guy off the pitch."

#4. Jean de Villiers (South Africa)

He is a retired South African rugby union player who made a lasting impact on the international stage.

As a versatile back, he showcased his skills and leadership abilities as the captain of the Springboks from 2012 to 2015.

De Villiers' playing career spanned over a decade, during which he exhibited exceptional athleticism and a powerful presence on the field.

He was widely respected for his tactical knowledge, unwavering commitment, and ability to inspire his teammates.

De Villiers remains an influential figure in the rugby world and continues to contribute to the sport through coaching and commentary.

Owens said: "He was not only a great rugby player but also a great leader and a great man. Whenever I came across him on the field, he impressed me."

#3. Richie McCaw (New Zealand)

McCaw is a legendary New Zealand rugby union player widely regarded as one of the greatest openside flankers in the history of the game.

The flankers career was defined by his exceptional skills, relentless work rate, and unparalleled leadership abilities.

He captained the All Blacks to back-to-back Rugby World Cup victories in 2011 and 2015, solidifying his status as a true icon of the sport.

Known for his ability to win turnovers and dominate the breakdown, McCaw's impact on the game was immeasurable. Beyond his playing career, he continues to be an influential figure, inspiring future generations of rugby players.

Owens said: "He’s right up on any list of rugby’s greatest players.

"Maybe he will be at the top for many people.

"New Zealand won something like nine out of every 10 games in which he led them, but the mark of Richie McCaw was how he conducted himself when the All Blacks lost."

#2. Paul O'Connell & Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland)

O'Connell is a former Irish rugby union player known for his towering presence and exceptional leadership skills.

As a lock, he captained Ireland and the British and Irish Lions, leading them to memorable victories. O'Connell's fearless competitiveness and humility made him a respected figure in the rugby community.

Meanwhile, O'Driscoll is an iconic Irish rugby union player and one of the greatest centres in the game's history.

His exceptional skill set, speed, and agility made him a constant threat on the field. O'Driscoll captained both Ireland and the British and Irish Lions, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.

Owens said: "I’m classing this as a joint-ticket as whenever I seemed to ref Ireland in their day O’Driscoll was captain and O’Connell was vice-skipper.

"O’Driscoll actually used to tell me if there were issues with the forwards then I should chat to O’Connell.

I found them excellent to deal with."

#1. Thierry Dusautoir (France)

Dusautoir is a retired French rugby union player renowned for his incredible defensive skills and fearless tackling. As a flanker, he captained the French national team from 2009 to 2015 and was a key figure in their formidable defense.

The flankers physicality, tenacity, and ability to disrupt opponents' play made him a formidable force on the field. He earned numerous accolades throughout his career, including the prestigious World Rugby Player of the Year award in 2011.

Dusautoir's leadership and dedication to the sport have left a lasting legacy, inspiring aspiring rugby players around the world.

Owens said: "My choice as the best skipper I encountered may raise a few eyebrows, but what a captain Dusautoir was.

"He unfailingly put his body on the line throughout his career — recall the 38 tackles he made when France knocked the All Blacks out of the 2007 World Cup — led by example and understood the game very well."