Itoje rested as Caluori among five England call-ups
Summary
England rugby captain Maro Itoje will not play in the upcoming Nations Championship games, including the Test against South Africa on July 4, as he has been rested after playing many matches in recent seasons. The team, led by Jamie George, includes five players making their first appearances, such as 19-year-old wing Noah Caluori and South African-born centre Benhard Janse van Rensburg.Key Facts
- Maro Itoje, 31, has been rested to avoid playing more than the recommended 30 games per season set by World Rugby.
- Itoje has been England captain since 2016 and also leads his club Saracens and the British and Irish Lions.
- Jamie George, former England captain, will lead the team during Itoje’s rest.
- Five players with no prior caps (experience in official international games) have been called up this summer.
- Noah Caluori, a 19-year-old Saracens wing known for his strong jumping and try-scoring ability, is selected over several rivals.
- Benhard Janse van Rensburg, born in South Africa, will be eligible to play for England in the match series starting July 11 after completing residency requirements.
- England’s head coach, Steve Borthwick, noted the Nations Championship will be challenging due to different climates and travel demands.
- The team will play against South Africa, then Fiji in Liverpool, and finish with games in Argentina.
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