I have matured as a player and a person - Maro Itoje

England and Saracens lock Maro Itoje believes he has improved as a player as he returns back to the tournament that he made debut two years back.

Itoje first represented the red rose team in February 2016 during the Six Nations tournament clash against Italy at the Stadio Olimpico where he came off the bench and has gone on to become an integral part of the red rose team since then featuring in 17 Tests with three of it coming for the British and Irish Lions during the tour of New Zealand.

“I’ve matured since then. This is my third Six Nations and that was my first cap. I’ve definitely matured as a player and a person,” Itoje said.

“I probably understand the game better. I like to think I’ve improved as a player as well. Then I was 21, now I’m 23.

“With age comes experience. You mature and you just no more about life as time goes on.

“Making my debut was a surreal moment. Growing up you watch England play and you admire those players and aspire to get to where those players are.

“From the second I walked on that pitch I then became an England player, something I’d been working towards for quite a while.

“It was a surreal moment for me, a great day for myself and my family to enjoy. I remember how happy my team-mates were, guys who didn’t necessarily know me that well, and spending time with them after the game.

“I remember my dad came to that game and seeing how happy he was. He was probably even more happy than me.

“Now it is a bit different to that. Back then I was still fairly new to rugby.

“Since I started playing international rugby I feel as if I’ve done well and it’s the right environment for me.

“I wouldn’t say comfortable is the right word. Comfortable sounds as if you’re taking it easy, taking your foot off the gas, not working as hard as you should be.”

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Defence coach Paul Gustard stated that the team will approach the series with an attacking mindset rather than look to defend their crown.

“The hunter theme is a fantastic analogy to use,” Itoje said.

“We want to be the aggressors, we want to take the game by the scruff the neck, we don’t want to be submissive in anything. That’s a great approach.”