England head coach Steve Borthwick has confirmed that a decision on whether to rest star lock Maro Itoje will be delayed until the final squad for the summer tour is announced in June. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Borthwick emphasised the importance of managing player workloads but stopped short of committing to any specific resting plan for Itoje, who has been a mainstay in the England side.
Workload Management Concerns
The 31-year-old Saracens forward has played a significant amount of rugby over the past two seasons, including club and international commitments. Borthwick acknowledged the need to balance performance with player welfare. “Maro is a world-class player and we want to ensure he is at his best for the big moments,” Borthwick said. “We are in discussions with the medical team and Saracens to find the best approach.”
Upcoming Fixtures
England are set to face Argentina, Australia, and New Zealand in July, with the final 36-man squad expected to be named on June 15. Borthwick indicated that the selection will be based on form, fitness, and long-term planning. “We have a deep squad and we will make the right call for the team and the individual,” he added.
Itoje has been a key figure in England’s recent campaigns, including the Six Nations and autumn internationals. His potential absence would be a significant blow, but Borthwick stressed that other players are ready to step up. “We have excellent options in the second row, and we are confident in our depth,” he said.
The decision has sparked debate among fans and pundits, with some arguing that Itoje deserves a break after a heavy workload, while others believe he should play a full part in the summer tour. Borthwick’s cautious approach suggests he is prioritising the long-term health of his players ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
