England’s system grants better oversight and retention of players contracted to Premiership clubs, providing the RFU with central support and reducing the risk of international exile for top talent. While nations like New Zealand, France, and Ireland prioritize home-based players, others such as South Africa, Australia, and Scotland increasingly rely on talent based overseas.
England head coach Steve Borthwick has opted to exclude both Lawes and Joe Marchant—his new Sale teammate—from initial training camp, demanding they demonstrate form in the Premiership first. This approach mirrors his strategy with Owen Farrell upon the latter’s return from Racing 92, underscoring Borthwick’s emphasis on Premier Rugby performance before international selection.
“I spoke to Steve briefly,” Lawes told BBC Radio 5 Live, “and he’s monitoring my progress since my return, but wants me to establish myself in the Premiership first—which I think is fair.”
“After two years abroad, I’m not focusing on England yet. My priority is proving myself at Sale first—there’s no point in rushing it,” added Lawes, who featured fully in England’s 50-28 Rugby Cup victory over Bath on Sunday.
Lawes surprised many by retiring from international rugby after England’s 2023 World Cup semi-final loss to South Africa, a decision he did not anticipate when leaving Northampton Saints following their domestic championship triumph the next season.
