England rugby has officially named Maro Itoje as captain for the 2025 Six Nations campaign, marking a significant milestone in the player’s illustrious career.
Itoje, one of England’s most decorated players, brings a wealth of experience and a commanding presence on the field.
Known for his athleticism, work rate, and leadership qualities, the Saracens lock is set to guide England through a highly competitive Six Nations tournament.
Head coach Steve Borthwick expressed his faith in Itoje’s ability to lead the team.
“With 88 England caps, Maro has been a central figure in this squad for many years, bringing a vast amount of experience both on and off the field,” said Borthwick. “He’s a calm, influential leader, renowned for his commitment to upholding high standards and his ability to motivate those around him.
“His strong rapport with the squad and coaches, combined with his leadership experience at Saracens, makes him ideally placed to take on this responsibility. I’d like to recognise the outstanding leadership of Jamie George, whose contributions as captain have been significant and will continue to play an important role as a vice-captain.”
England, under Itoje's leadership, will look to rebuild after a challenging 2024. The team is eager to make a strong statement in this year’s Six Nations, starting with their opening match against Scotland at Twickenham.
Borthwick has also unveiled England’s 36-man squad for the upcoming Six Nations, featuring notable changes and fresh faces alongside seasoned leaders. With hooker Jamie George and prop Ellis Genge named as vice-captains, the squad blends experience and emerging talent as England prepares for a challenging tournament.
In-form number eight Tom Willis earns a deserved call-up, replacing Zach Mercer, while Alex Mitchell returns to the squad after recovering from injury, taking over from Ben Spencer, who drops out despite starting as first-choice scrum-half during the autumn.
Leicester prop Dan Cole, 37, is omitted in favor of younger options Joe Heyes and Sale’s Asher Opoku-Fordjour, signaling a focus on long-term depth in the front row. Bevan Rodd steps in as the new loose-head option following Joe Marler’s retirement, completing the changes in the forward pack.
The backline sees several adjustments due to injuries. Harlequins wing Cadan Murley replaces Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, who is likely to undergo shoulder surgery. In midfield, Oscar Beard and Fraser Dingwall offer alternatives to first-choice centers Ollie Lawrence and Henry Slade, while Alex Lozowski is left out.
At full-back, Northampton’s George Furbank remains unavailable with a fractured arm, leaving Leicester’s Freddie Steward as the only specialist in the position. However, Saracens’ Elliot Daly and fly-half Marcus Smith provide additional versatility to cover the back three.
England Six Nations squad
Forwards: Fin Baxter, Ollie Chessum, Alex Coles, Luke Cowan-Dickie, Chandler Cunningham-South, Ben Curry, Tom Curry, Theo Dan, Alex Dombrandt , Ben Earl, Ellis Genge, Jamie George, Joe Heyes, Ted Hill, Maro Itoje, George Martin, Asher Opoku-Fordjour, Bevan Rodd, Will Stuart, Tom Willis.
Backs: Oscar Beard, Elliot Daly, Fraser Dingwall, George Ford, Tommy Freeman, Ollie Lawrence, Alex Mitchell, Cadan Murley, Harry Randall, Tom Roebuck, Henry Slade, Ollie Sleightholme, Fin Smith, Marcus Smith, Freddie Steward, Jack van Poortvliet.