Maro Itoje has firmly rejected former England head coach Eddie Jones’ claim that he is “inward-looking” and not suited for Test captaincy. This comes after Itoje was unveiled as Saracens’ new captain, replacing Owen Farrell, who has moved to Racing 92.
Jones, in a 2021 book, suggested that Itoje lacked the outward leadership qualities needed for an international captain. However, Itoje has now addressed these comments, setting the record straight on his leadership style and his supposed acting classes.
Join the RUCK’s WhatsApp community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.
A New Role at Saracens
Itoje, aged 29, has taken on his first senior captaincy role at Saracens. The England lock was tipped early in his career as a future national team captain after bursting onto the Test scene eight years ago. Despite his obvious potential, Jones never appointed him as England skipper, stating in his book that Itoje “drives himself rather than anyone else” and doesn’t influence others off the field.
“I might be wrong, but I am not sure Maro is a future England captain,” Jones wrote at the time. “He is going to be one of the great players, but Maro is very inward-looking.”
Itoje Sets the Record Straight
Responding to Jones’ claims, Itoje expressed disappointment, feeling that the former coach’s assessment misrepresented him.
“I felt that was a wrong diagnosis of who I am,” Itoje said. “Most people who know me, most people who read those comments who knew me, would say that was an inaccurate conclusion. I guess it was unfortunate that your coach would say something like that about you, but in life, not everyone is going to see things the way you do.”
Itoje also clarified that he never attended acting classes, despite Jones’ assertions. “I worked with the psychologist at the time on how to communicate more clearly and effectively, but I was not waltzing across a stage practising Shakespearean prose.”
A Milestone in Personal Life
In addition to his new captaincy role, Itoje has recently taken a significant step in his personal life, getting engaged to his long-term partner, Mimi Fall, an aspiring chef, model, and artist. Known for guarding his personal life closely, Itoje shared the news via his fiancée’s Instagram post.
The couple, who met through modelling, received congratulations from England teammate Marcus Smith, who wrote: “Congrats to you both!! X”
Ready for Future Leadership?
With Jamie George currently leading England, Itoje’s appointment as Saracens captain could suggest he is more than prepared for future leadership roles with the national team, should the opportunity arise. Having matured into one of rugby’s premier talents, Itoje’s leadership credentials will undoubtedly be scrutinized as he leads his club this season.
The Three Richest Couples in World Rugby
Rugby has produced some of the most iconic athletes in the sporting world, but for a select few, success on the pitch has also led to immense wealth off it.
From high-profile marriages to lucrative endorsements and television appearances, these rugby stars have built financial empires.
Here’s a look at three couples who have combined their sporting legacies with fame and fortune, amassing millions along the way.
Mike and Zara Tindall – £20m
Mike Tindall is known not just for his rugby prowess but for his royal connections. As the husband of Zara Phillips, the granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth II, Tindall has become a prominent figure in British media.
Nicknamed “The Fridge” due to his imposing physique, Tindall was a stalwart on the rugby field, famously breaking his nose at least eight times over the course of his career. Since retiring from the sport, he’s made a name for himself in the entertainment world, appearing on popular reality shows such as I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here, Bear Grylls: Mission Survive, The Jump, Shark Cage, Celebrity Poker Club, and All-Star Poker Challenge.
Despite his success in sports and entertainment, Tindall’s wealth has been largely bolstered by his royal ties, with his net worth estimated at £20 million, according to British media.
