Now Itoje has been named as captain of the British and Irish Lions for their upcoming tour to Australia. That’s historic, considering even how young the franchise is. Itoje is chosen as the 47th Lions captain, since the team’s foundation in 1888. His selection is particularly historic as he is the first Black player to captain the Lions. This signing decision represents the changing forces of rugby powerbrokers and underscored Itoje’s brilliant on-the-field pedigree.
Itoje was recently appointed captain of the England national rugby team. He takes over this new role after his success in guiding England to a second-place finish in the 2023 Six Nations Championship. From his command under center, the squad rattled off four-straight wins, giving further evidence that he is a born leader. He is about to go on his third Lions tour. In the last incarnation, he toured as the youngest player on the 2017 New Zealand tour and made a splash-in-the-pan debut on the 2021 South Africa tour.
A Leader Among Leaders
Maro Itoje’s appointment would be a groundbreaking move for the Lions. He would become only the third home-grown Englishman to captain the team during those 89 years. This rare opportunity follows a dinner in London with ex Lions captains. During the course of that dinner, Itoje opened up about his respect for their fire and commitment to the game.
Itoje said he was thrilled to take on his new position. I’ll make sure to do the role justice and am very much looking forward to the challenge ahead. It’s going to be a fabulous tour. He is a passionate champion for excellence. His indomitable leadership then inspired the England Under-20s to win the Junior World Cup in 2014.
Itoje’s tenure in charge has already been applauded by the Saracens director of rugby, Mark McCall, who cited his development towards skipper on and off the field. “He has thrived on the England captaincy. He was on fire during the Six Nations. Since then, McCall said he’s actually played better for us. He was a real leader. He introduced Itoje as a real leader for always keeping his word. Maro truly leads by example,” he continued, “His reliability speaks for itself.”
Historical Significance
The importance of Itoje’s appointment goes beyond the numbers, as his appointment signals a change of cultural tides in rugby. Itoje has the added distinction of becoming the first Englishman to captain the Lions in 24 years, succeeding Martin Johnson. His selection as an alternate is a testament to his exceptional credibility and playing skill. His prior experiences with the Lions have provided him with invaluable wisdom. Now, he is looking forward to passing that wisdom along to his teammates.
Additionally, Itoje’s leadership path has been marked by significant success, including being installed as Saracens captain this season. He’s always been a tremendous motivator to those in his midst. We hope to see him do more of this in the crucial cross country tour to come.
I mean, look — the players are so, so hungry. Everyone is hungry to be a Lion and I can’t wait to come in and do my part,’ Itoje said, expressing his enthusiasm for this new challenge.
Looking Ahead
As Maro Itoje gets ready for this most important of tours, the pressure is on—pressure from fans and players to help HIM through the transition. The Lions will have their work cut out against Australia. If they have Itoje leading them out, hope for a successful campaign will be in no short supply.
It is his leadership style that really ignites the proud and fierce team spirit amongst the players. He takes this inspiration from his own experiences in an elite brotherhood. What a great experience that was! It truly is a colorful fraternal organization and a special club. Inside, I just truly enjoyed being around them, hearing all of the ways that they love and adore and appreciate the Lions. It was just incredible to have been involved in that,” Itoje told reporters of his conversations with previous skippers.
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