England flanker Lewis Ludlam believes that the song ‘Swing Low, Sweet Chariot’ should continue to be sang at Twickenham moving forward.
The RFU have launched a review into the ‘historical context’ of the song – which is regularly belted out by England supporters and has its lyrics written on the walls at Twickenham.
“I would disagree, personally, ‘Swing Low’ is something I grew up listening to and singing along to when I went to watch England play when I was younger,” he told Sky Sports.
“I think the meaning of things changes. When you sing Swing Low Sweet Chariot, it’s not in the context of race and slavery anymore.
“Like I said, it is something I grew up singing to, and I don’t think those 50,000 people at Twickenham when they are singing it, even think about the racial connotations behind it.
“It is not something I agree with banning, it is something I enjoy singing, and I think the context and the meaning of the song has changed for me.”
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6 Things to Know About Lewis Ludlam
1. Initial disappointment
Despite being initially released by Northampton a few years ago, Ludlam's tenacity and talent not only led to him being recalled for Saints’ Under-18s, but move up into the Senior Academy on a full-time basis.
2. Position change
Originally a centre, he has now found a home in the back row for both Club and country.
3. Star-man
The Northampton Saints flanker was voted England’s player of the 2015 World Rugby U20 Championship.
4. Background
He comes from a family of mixed heritage – dad Arron is of Palestinian and Egyptian origin while mum Dorinda hails from a Guyanese background.
5. Touching gesture
He invited his primary school teacher to Twickenham on Sunday 13 years after promising he would if he ever played for England.
6. Tackling machine
No player made more tackles during England Rugby's clashes with Wales, who has now made 34 tackles without missing any in his Test career.
