England make major captaincy decision ahead of Six Nations campaign

Yesterday at 10:36 AM

Maro Itoje will captain England for the Guiness Six Nations after Steve Borthwick’s leadership shake-up.

Borthwhick has made the big call to replace Jamie George as captain following a disappointing year.

George has been captain since the 2023 World Cup but has now been replaced by his Saracens teammate after a year in which England won just five of their 12 Tests.

For Itoje, it’s the first time that he’s been given the role of England captain, although he has previously taken the title when replacing George in games.

He is, however, the Saracens captain after taking the role at the start of the season.

Explaining his decision, Borthwick said: “Maro’s a world-class player who has the respect of everybody so I feel really privileged to have the opportunity to appoint Maro as captain.

“When you’re making a decision like that, there’s always a number of factors to consider – where the team’s at and what you feel it needs in this next spell.”

Itoje’s hopes of ever becoming captain looked bleak under previous boss Eddie Jones who doubted he had what it took to take the role, describing him as ‘very inward-looking’.

But reflecting on his new role the 30-year-old was full of pride.

He said: “With the role comes a great deal of responsibility, but I’m at a point in my career where I feel ready to give my all to serve the team and the fans with the captaincy, and also produce my best on the field.

“It’s reassuring to know there is a group of senior players to support me and help build on the achievements of Jamie, who has led the team brilliantly and who has been a great friend and leader for so many years.”

George, who has 97 caps for England, has now been demoted to vice-captain alongside Ellis Genge.

“Jamie’s done a great job of captaining this side in the last 12 months,” Borthwick explained.

“He’s disappointed, as anybody would be. He’s a very proud Englishman and he’s led the team with a great deal of pride.

“One of Jamie’s great strengths as a leader, person and player is that he’s always put the team first. Having spoken to him, that’s what his intent is.”

England will start their Six Nation campaign on Saturday, February 1 when they face Ireland in Dublin.

The tournament will conclude on Saturday, March 15 with a potentially decisive clash with Wales in Cardiff.