Lions Legend Lawes Reveals Leadership Test in South African Tour
Former Lions star Courtney Lawes reveals the strategic mind games and leadership challenges during the 2021 South African tour, highlighting the delicate balance of elite sports management.
Courtney Lawes during the British & Irish Lions 2021 Tour of South Africa
In a revealing account that demonstrates the importance of disciplined leadership and professional excellence, former British and Irish Lions star Courtney Lawes has shared a remarkable story from the 2021 Lions tour of South Africa.
Strategic Mind Games in Elite Rugby
Lawes, the 36-year-old England and Brive flanker, experienced a moment of profound tension when approaching then-Lions boss Warren Gatland during breakfast. After seeing his playing time decrease following substantial appearances in early matches, including the warm-up against Japan and full games against Sigma Lions and Cell C Sharks, Lawes sought clarity about his position.
"I was beginning to worry that I had done something wrong," Lawes revealed to The Telegraph. "When I approached him at breakfast, Gatland said straight-faced, 'Sorry Courtney, we're going to send you home,' before bursting into laughter."
Leadership and Team Management
The incident highlights how strategic management and clear communication are crucial in elite sports. Gatland's approach, while initially shocking, demonstrated the delicate balance between maintaining team discipline and fostering a positive atmosphere.
Managing Elite Athletes
Gatland later explained to the media that Lawes' reduced involvement was purely strategic, managing a minor neck issue and ensuring peak performance for crucial matches. This approach to player management shows how professional excellence requires careful balance between performance and preservation.
Lions' Current Success
The article concludes with an update on the Lions' impressive current tour of Australia, where they've secured victories in eight out of nine fixtures. Their recent 29-26 triumph at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, featuring a dramatic comeback from 23-5 down, showcases the team's enduring excellence even after Lawes' retirement from international rugby in October 2023.
Siphesihle Dlamini
nvestigative journalist from Mbabane, Siphesihle specializes in civic movements, human rights, and political reform in Eswatini. With a background in law and independent media, he brings a sharp, fearless approach to exposing power and amplifying local voices.