Lawes made his professional debut across all formats in 2022, marking his entry into county cricket with disciplined medium-fast bowling and useful lower-order batting. He warranted attention early by taking four wickets for 51 against Kent on his first-class debut; those scalps were a statement: speed, control, swing, and immediate impact.

In those early seasons, often overshadowed by Surrey’s star-studded attack, Lawes quietly emerged as a reliable bowling all-rounder. 

He debuted in The Hundred for Northern Superchargers in 2024, bowling a brief spell but making enough of an impression to remain part of their plans.

Beyond numbers, Lawes offers finer elements: late swing, steady seam position, consistent pace in the high 80s mph, and the athleticism to field in tight positions. Surrey rewarded those traits with a multi-year contract in August 2023, a signal of faith in his potential.

That potential caught broader attention when Lawes earned selection for the England Lions programme, including a winter camp in Abu Dhabi and an A-tour to India. Working under the mentorship of Andrew Flintoff and coached by Graeme Swann, Lawes described the experience as “surreal” and instrumental in refining his approach. It exposed him to elite environments and helped him adapt to subcontinental conditions.

Lawes’ development came at a time when England faced a fast-bowling transition. With legends like Stuart Broad and James Anderson retired, selectors are demanding bowlers capable of maintaining 85 mph regularly. 

Despite his youth, Lawes has shown resolve under pressure. A notable example came in the County Championship, when he delivered a tight bowling spell late in a drawn contest to help Surrey maintain their grip atop Division One. He also played useful innings down the order, like a 33 off 51 against Essex, showing he can steady the boat even when not roaring.

His batting isn’t built to dazzle, but to deliver solidity. He speaks of wanting to evolve into a bowling all-rounder, not just a seamer who occasionally contributes. His calm temperament and low-key preparation set him apart; he doesn’t chase hype but focuses on process, working through drills rather than highlight reels.

When Surrey won back-to-back County Championship titles in 2022 and 2023, Lawes played a part. He signed a new contract alongside Jamie Smith and Dan Worrall, reinforcing his value to the club beyond just a supporting cast, a key ingredient in their sustained success.

At the England U19 level, he made early appearances in 2022, contributing both with bat and ball in youth Tests. Though he only played one U19 Test, he impressed with capable figures that hinted at an all-round trajectory.

His strengths lie in control rather than express pace. He may not blow opposition away over 90mph, but he bowls tight lines, swings the new ball, and sustains spells with energy even under fatigue. That’s the craft England will need, especially on bowler-friendly tracks overseas.

(As of August 2025)