P { margin-bottom: 0.08in; direction: ltr; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); widows: 2; orphans: 2; }
The Saint is widely regarded as one of England’s key impact forwards, but isn’t getting complacent with one of the five locks in the current party likely to miss out on Rugby World Cup selection.
“People are fighting for spots in the team and for starting spots so you want to go out there and play well, not just for the team but for yourself,” he told the England Rugby podcast. “We’ve put in some groundwork in the past [Lawes and Joe Launchbury] and I think we complement each other well on the field.
“But you still have to take the opportunity to impress ahead of a home World Cup because it’s the only chance we’ll have to do it. It’s a special time.”
Ahead of the return leg with France on Saturday evening, Lawes was his usual relaxed self, but did take a minute to recognise the threats England face at Stade de France.
“They’ve got a hell of a big pack, but that’s what you’re used to with the French. They like their big forwards and their quick backs so it’s going to be a great challenge. I’m very much looking forward to it.”
