Itoje replaces George as England captain for the Six Nations rugby tournament
England’s Maro Itoje celebrates after his team won the Rugby World Cup quarterfinal match between England and Fiji at the Stade de Marseille in Marseille, France, Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023. (AP Photo/Laurent Cipriani, File)
LONDON (AP) — Maro Itoje was selected Tuesday as England’s captain for the Six Nations rugby tournament, replacing Jamie George.
The 30-year-old lock takes the role for the first time, having previously deputized for George when the hooker has been replaced in the second half of games.
George, who has had the armband since the 2023 Rugby World Cup, was demoted to vice-captain alongside Ellis Genge.
Itoje, who has 88 caps, was appointed as Saracens captain for this season, also ahead of George.
“He’s a calm, influential leader, renowned for his commitment to upholding high standards and his ability to motivate those around him,” England coach Steve Borthwick said. “His strong rapport with the squad and coaches, combined with his leadership experience at Saracens, makes him ideally placed to take on this responsibility.”
Borthwick has picked a 36-man squad for the Six Nations that includes No. 8 Tom Willis, but is missing veteran prop Dan Cole and scrumhalf Ben Spencer.
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