The “huge presence” of Courtney Lawes has already added extra bite and crunch to the Sale Sharks environment, according to South African lock Ernst van Rhyn.

Lawes, 37, who won 105 caps during a 14-year England career and five Lions appearances, has been persuaded by head coach Alex Sanderson to try and help resurrect Sale’s fortunes.
And van Rhyn – who endured a tough time as captain with the team finishing in seventh spot with just five Premiership wins – feels it is a good move to bring in a player still so hungry and committed to the cause.
Van Rhyn insists: “People would be surprised how...