England Captain Maro Itoje Absent from Six Nations Launch
England will begin their Six Nations training camp in Spain this week without their captain, Maro Itoje, who has travelled to Nigeria for his mother's funeral. The Saracens lock was notably missing from the official championship launch event in Edinburgh on Monday and is not expected to rejoin the squad until Wednesday evening.
Borthwick's Emotional Support for Itoje
Steve Borthwick, England's head coach, has granted Itoje permission to miss the initial phase of the training block in Girona. "He is in Nigeria for the funeral of his mother and we are all deeply saddened for him," Borthwick stated. "When I have talked to him I sense emotionally he has found it very tough, very challenging."
Borthwick emphasised the importance of family support during this difficult time, noting that Itoje's entire family gathering in Nigeria for the funeral is a crucial aspect for the player. The coach expressed confidence that Itoje will return to the squad ready to contribute fully once he has had the opportunity to grieve properly.
Jamie George Steps In with Personal Understanding
Itoje's captaincy responsibilities at the Edinburgh launch were assumed by his longtime teammate Jamie George, who experienced a similar personal tragedy just two years ago when he led England at Murrayfield the week after his own mother passed away from cancer.
"We've spoken a lot," George revealed. "The parallels are scary, really. It's heartbreaking news. I know how much of a difficult time he's going through."
George's primary advice to Itoje focused on allowing sufficient time for grieving and processing the loss. "My biggest message to him was to make sure he gives himself enough time to grieve and to process things," George explained, adding that Itoje will only return when fully prepared to dedicate himself completely to the squad.
Six Nations Teams Face Various Challenges
While England contends with their captain's personal circumstances, other Six Nations teams are encountering their own disruptions ahead of the tournament's commencement. France has suffered significant injury setbacks, losing prop Uini Atonio and flanker Paul Boudehent just before the championship begins.
Ireland faces concerning front-row issues, particularly at loosehead prop where multiple players are injured, prompting the call-up of Connacht's uncapped 20-year-old Billy Bohan. Captain Caelan Doris acknowledged the challenging opening fixture against France in Paris, noting it "definitely sharpens the mind."
Borthwick's Strategic Approach
Despite the personal challenges affecting his squad, Borthwick remains focused on England's tournament objectives. The coach anticipates a barrage of high balls from Wales in their opening match, suggesting the hosts are preparing for "50 kicks" from a Welsh side looking to apply aerial pressure.
Borthwick clarified that while the Rugby Football Union's strategic plan encourages inspiring play, his immediate priority remains victory. "We want to win every game we go into," he asserted, outlining ambitions to win the World Cup in 2027 while attacking the current tournament with "an attitude to play fast and to play brave."
Summer Tour Considerations
Looking beyond the Six Nations, England may implement a split-squad approach for their summer tour to maximise success in inaugural Nations Championship games. With Tests scheduled in South Africa and Argentina either side of a fixture against Fiji in northern England, senior players might travel directly between continents rather than returning to the UK between matches.
"It's one of the considerations I have right now," Borthwick confirmed regarding the logistical planning. An additional England XV fixture against a French XV in Vannes on 19th June further complicates the summer schedule.
The rugby community's support for Itoje during this personal tragedy highlights how such situations put sporting competitions into perspective, even as teams prepare for one of rugby's most prestigious tournaments.
