Lawrence hails his ‘hero’ Tuilagi after teaming up in narrow loss to France
Ollie Lawrence finished Saturday’s agonising defeat by France alongside boyhood idol Manu Tuilagi in what was a symbolic moment for England’s midfield.
Lawrence produced a coming-of-age performance in the 33-31 defeat at Groupama Stadium, crossing either side of half-time in an impressive display of power running that was a continuation of his stellar form for Bath.
It was evidence that the 24-year-old centre is ready to provide the ball-carrying might that has been Tuilagi’s calling card since making his debut in 2011.
England have longed to find a defence-smashing alternative to Tuilagi during his regular spells out through injury and in Lyon they finally witnessed a passing of the baton, with the 32-year-old veteran almost certainly playing his final Test before joining a French club next season.
Eddie Jones drew a comparison between the punch they offer in attack in 2021 and, after the similarities were made clear in a riveting climax to the Guinness Six Nations that saw Tuilagi step off the bench for the final 21 minutes, Lawrence paid tribute to a unique team-mate.
“Manu’s been class. You ask anyone in the squad, he’s one of the best people around,” Lawrence said.
“He was my hero growing up, he was someone I looked up to and tried to emulate my game around. The way he was playing at a young age in an England shirt was amazing. To keep going playing at this level is testament to him really.
“Who knows what is going to happen in the future, but it has been a pleasure playing with Manu. He’s a great bloke on and off the field.”
England finished only third in the table but having inflicted Ireland’s solitary defeat and dazzled against France, who triumphed through a finalminute Thomas Ramos penalty, clear progress was made.
“It was a massive step forward for us as a team. Throughout this tournament we’ve progressed nicely. It was unfortunate that we didn’t get over the line,” Lawrence said.