On Saturday, February 1, 2025, Maro Itoje will lead the England rugby team as they kick off their Six Nations campaign against Ireland at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. The 30-year-old lock has taken on the captaincy role following the departure of Jamie George, with hopes to inspire his team to improve on the dismal record of only five wins from twelve Tests during 2024.
"I don't want to lose and losing is not what I am about," Istated Itoje, conveying his dedication to the sport during a interview with BBC Rugby Union Weekly. His words underline the responsibility he feels as the newly appointed captain, seeking to guide his team to regain lost glory and achieve their first Six Nations title since 2020.
Itoje’s appointment came after England's struggle on the pitch, which saw the team fall short on numerous occasions. Most prominently, they faced defeat against top-tier teams like New Zealand and France, which highlighted their need for consistent on-field leadership. Itoje aims to change the narrative by instilling confidence and belief within his squad.
Over the years, Itoje has commanded respect, having made his mark as one of England’s most influential players. He led his country to victory at the Under-20 World Championship back in 2014 and sampled early fame as part of the squad during the 2016 Grand Slam-winning campaign. Now, he is set to take on the challenge of captaining the senior team for the first time.
While some have questioned Itoje’s suitability for captaincy, citing his background and personality as impediments to effective leadership, the man himself rejects such characterizations. Former England head coach Eddie Jones had previously critiqued Itoje, claiming he was "very inward-looking" and lacked the ability to influence others off the field. Itoje countered, asserting, "I guess it was unfortunate... not everyone is going to see things the same way." His resilience shines through as he has opted to focus on his core beliefs and principles.
At Saracens, where Itoje was made captain earlier this season, he has already begun implementing initiatives aimed at fostering camaraderie. One of these is his weekly 'My Rose' presentation for squad members to share personal stories and insights about themselves. According to Itoje, this helps forge stronger relationships among team members, setting the stage for improved performance on the field.
Itoje notes, "When people write you off, it always gets the juices flowing," conveying his motivation to defy skeptics. With many expecting a tough game against the reigning champions, Ireland, Itoje aims to channel his experiences to uplift his team. "We believe in our team, we believe in what we can do. It's just our job to go and do it," he said, pointing toward the upcoming fixture.
The upcoming match against Ireland holds considerable significance beyond merely being Itoje's captaincy debut. The Six Nations is regarded as one of the premier rugby tournaments, and the stakes could not be higher for either side. Itoje, known for his relentless work ethic and determination, will certainly need to to draw upon every ounce of his experience to steer England back to success.
Insights from teammates bolster Itoje's standing as the new captain. His commitment to performing at the highest levels is evident; as Saracens’ director of rugby, Mark McCall, stated, “Maro is as dedicated a player as I have come across.” The trust his teammates place in him is based on his ability to lead by doing, displaying exemplary performance during rigorous matches.
On the front of strategy, Itoje’s leadership plan aligns with head coach Steve Borthwick's vision for the future of English rugby. With the RFU announcing Borthwick's contract won’t extend beyond 2027, players are being called upon to rebuild trust and cohesion within the team. Itoje’s role is pivotal, as he embodies both leadership potential and physical dependability throughout matches.
The Six Nations is just around the corner—England entered as underdogs with predictions giving them only two percent chances of winning. But Itoje approaches this not as discouragement but as fuel for motivation. "That's funny!" he said with laughter, refusing to accept the odds without challenge. His shift from predictions to practicality is what he aims to instill within his team on the pitch.
Finally, the precious opportunity to lead the England team against Ireland is not lost on Itoje. It is more than just another match; it's his moment to bring change, convey positivity, and inspire not only immediate teammates but also the entirety of England’s rugby community. The stakes are high, predictions are grim, but Itoje stands staunch—ready to take the field as captain and command his side onward toward potential triumph.