All Blacks legend had no regret about hospitalising Jamie Laing during charity game

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Made in Chelsea star Jamie Laing learned the hard way that swapping reality TV for the rugby pitch isn't for everyone.

During Rugby Aid for Heroes back in 2015, Laing ended up nursing cracked ribs after being on the receiving end of a monstrous hit from former All Black enforcer Brad Thorn.

“Thorn Still Has It”

Despite retiring not long before the charity match, Thorn showed no signs of slowing down. The ex-New Zealand lock delivered a crunching tackle at Twickenham that left Laing wishing he'd stayed on the sidelines.

“Hospital Bound After Heroic Effort”

Laing, who represented England in the match aired live on BT Sport, took to Twitter and Instagram to update fans. His post-match journey took a detour – straight to the hospital.

“But after a massive match this is where I end up… On my way to hospital,” he tweeted, sharing a picture of himself looking worse for wear.

“Battle Scars and Bravery”

Later, Jamie posted a topless snap from his bed, bottom lip out, clearly feeling the effects of the brutal encounter. He captioned it:

“Had them out amazing day of my life thank you @rugbyaid2015… This is the price you pay for putting your body on the line for England Rugby… Loved every moment #crackedribs #stillplayedon (sic)”

“Hill's Hero”

Despite the pain, Laing's effort didn't go unnoticed. England legend Richard Hill was full of praise, naming Jamie as his personal man of the match.

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28 England players on Andy Farrell’s 75-man Lions watchlist

British and Irish Lions head coach Andy Farrell has confirmed that a 75-player longlist has been assembled ahead of the 2025 tour to Australia. The competition is fierce, with Farrell admitting there's no shortage of talent vying for a spot.

Looseheads: Genge and Porter Set to Lead the Charge

Ireland's Andrew Porter remains the front-runner to start in the No. 1 jersey after his impressive performances in recent seasons. Scotland's Pierre Schoeman offers a powerful scrummaging option, while Wales' Nicky Smith is a consistent performer. England is well-represented with Ellis GengeBevan Rodd, and rising star Fin Baxter pushing for inclusion.

  • Andrew Porter (Ireland)
  • Pierre Schoeman (Scotland)
  • Nicky Smith (Wales)
  • Ellis Genge (England)
  • Bevan Rodd (England)
  • Fin Baxter (England)

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Hookers: Sheehan and George in Pole Position

Ireland's Dan Sheehan has been a standout performer and looks a strong contender to start. His Leinster teammate Ronan Kelleher provides excellent cover, while England's Jamie George and a returning Luke Cowan-Dickie bring plenty of Lions experience. Dewi Lake is Wales' leading option.

  • Dan Sheehan (Ireland)
  • Ronan Kelleher (Ireland)
  • Jamie George (England)
  • Luke Cowan-Dickie (England)
  • Dewi Lake (Wales)

Tightheads: Furlong Leads Strong Contingent

Ireland's Tadhg Furlong is a near-certainty for the squad, while Finlay Bealham adds versatility. England's trio of Will StuartJoe Heyes, and Kyle Sinckler offer plenty of competition. Scotland's Zander Fagerson remains a reliable option.

  • Tadhg Furlong (Ireland)
  • Finlay Bealham (Ireland)
  • Will Stuart (England)
  • Joe Heyes (England)
  • Kyle Sinckler (England)
  • Zander Fagerson (Scotland)

Locks/Blindsides: Itoje and Beirne Among Favourites

Maro Itoje remains a key figure, with England also supplying George MartinOllie Chessum, and veteran Courtney Lawes. Ireland's Tadhg Beirne and James Ryan provide leadership, while Joe McCarthy and Iain Henderson add depth. Scotland's Scott Cummings and Grant Gilchrist will compete for spots, while Dafydd Jenkins looks to be Wales' strongest option.

  • Maro Itoje (England)
  • George Martin (England)
  • Ollie Chessum (England)
  • Courtney Lawes (England)
  • David Ribbans (England)
  • James Ryan (Ireland)
  • Tadhg Beirne (Ireland)
  • Joe McCarthy (Ireland)
  • Iain Henderson (Ireland)
  • Dafydd Jenkins (Wales)
  • Scott Cummings (Scotland)
  • Grant Gilchrist (Scotland)

Flankers/No. 8s: Doris and Earl Set to Shine

Ireland's Caelan Doris is a top contender for the No. 8 jersey, while Josh van der Flier and Peter O'Mahony add experience and breakdown prowess. England's back-row options are loaded, with Tom CurryBen Earl, and Jack Willisoffering variety. Scotland's Rory Darge and Jamie Ritchie are strong candidates, while Wales' Jac Morgan and Aaron Wainwright bring dynamism.

  • Tom Curry (England)
  • Ben Curry (England)
  • Ben Earl (England)
  • Sam Underhill (England)
  • Henry Pollock (England)
  • Jack Willis (England)
  • Tom Willis (England)
  • Caelan Doris (Ireland)
  • Josh van der Flier (Ireland)
  • Peter O'Mahony (Ireland)
  • Jack Conan (Ireland)
  • Rory Darge (Scotland)
  • Jamie Ritchie (Scotland)
  • Matt Fagerson (Scotland)
  • Jack Dempsey (Scotland)
  • Jac Morgan (Wales)
  • Aaron Wainwright (Wales)

CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO


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