"Injury crisis" – England Without 7 Key Players for the Six Nations
Today at 08:35 AM
England’s Six Nations campaign will look a little different this year, with Maro Itoje stepping into the captaincy role.
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The Saracens lock replaces his clubmate Jamie George, who led the side during the autumn internationals.
Itoje, 30, brings leadership experience to the table, having captained Saracens this season following Owen Farrell's departure to France. Reflecting on the appointment, he said:
“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.”
Jamie George and Ellis Genge Named Vice-Captains
Hooker Jamie George and Bristol prop Ellis Genge will act as vice-captains, providing support to Itoje in Steve Borthwick’s 36-man squad.
In-Form Willis In, Spencer Out
Tom Willis earns a call-up after impressing for Bordeaux, while Alex Mitchell returns to the fold at scrum-half, forcing Ben Spencer out of the squad.
Meanwhile, seasoned Leicester prop Dan Cole has been omitted, with Joe Heyes and Sale's Asher Opoku-Fordjour coming in as tight-head options.
Rugby Poll:
Full List of Injured Absentees:
- Afolabi Fasogbon (Gloucester Rugby)
- Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (Exeter Chiefs)
- George Furbank (Northampton Saints)
- Gabriel Ibitoye (Bristol Bears)
- Nick Isiekwe (Saracens)
- Luke Northmore (Harlequins)
- Sam Underhill (Bath Rugby)
With these players sidelined, England will face a tough test in their Six Nations opener.
EDITORS PICKS:
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QUIZ: Six Nations Men's Player of the Championship Winners (2004-2023)
The Guinness Six Nations Player of the Championship award, has been bestowed to the best player of the tournament since 2004. In the 20 instalments that this trophy has been given out, two people hold the record for the most separate wins, with three a-piece.
The winner of the award may not necessarily have won the Championship, Grand Slam or Triple Crown for that matter. Individual brilliance is what is recognised, and we challenge you to name every single winner from the past 20 Six Nations Championships.
Five minutes is on the clock… good luck!
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