Maro Itoje could be handed a much-needed summer break after a relentless 2025 in which the England captain has had little opportunity to catch his breath — or spend quality time with his wife.

According to The Telegraph, Steve Borthwick is considering resting Itoje for some or all of England’s Nations Championship fixtures this summer.

The demanding schedule sees England travel to South Africa, host Fiji and then fly to Argentina, a gruelling itinerary involving around 25,000 miles across three continents.

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Workload and injury concerns behind the decision

Borthwick will announce an extended training squad on Monday, with Itoje expected to be included in the initial camp even if he is ultimately rested for one or more of the matches.

The move is being considered as part of England’s player welfare strategy. In each of the last two seasons, Itoje has exceeded the Rugby Football Union’s recommended workload by playing more than 30 matches.

This season alone, the 31-year-old second row has featured 20 times for club and country despite dealing with the lingering effects of a concussion suffered on the British & Irish Lions tour and an ongoing knee issue.

One of England’s most decorated forwards

Widely regarded as one of the finest locks of his generation, Itoje has won multiple Premiership Rugby titles and European Cups with Saracens and has been a central figure for England for nearly a decade.

Any decision to rest Itoje would not impact his status as England captain heading into the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Who could lead England in his absence?

In Itoje’s absence, potential stand-in captains include Ellis Genge, Jamie George and Ollie Chessum.

England Summer Tour Fixtures (2026)

England’s summer tour shapes up as a serious test across three very different rugby environments:

  • South Africa vs England
    📍 Ellis Park, Johannesburg
    📅 4 July 2026
  • Fiji vs England
    📍 Hill Dickinson Stadium (Everton)
    📅 11 July 2026
  • Argentina vs England
    📍 Venue TBC
    📅 18 July 2026

This is a brutal run—altitude in South Africa, flair against Fiji, and physicality in Argentina.

Props

  • Ellis Genge
  • Mako Vunipola
  • Fin Baxter
  • Joe Heyes
  • Asher Opoku-Fordjour
  • Afolabi Fasogbon

Summary:
A powerful and evolving unit. Genge sets the tone physically, Vunipola adds experience, and the younger options bring mobility and long-term promise.

Hookers

  • Jamie George
  • Kepu Tuipulotu
  • Tom Dunn

Summary:
George remains the cornerstone with his leadership and set-piece accuracy. Dunn adds physical edge, while Tuipulotu is a high-upside development option.

Second Row

  • Courtney Lawes
  • Ollie Chessum
  • Charlie Ewels
  • Alex Coles

Summary:
An elite engine room. Itoje leads the charge, Lawes adds experience and presence, while Chessum and Coles provide athleticism and lineout strength.

Back Row

  • Guy Pepper
  • Henry Pollock
  • Chandler Cunningham-South
  • Ben Earl
  • Tom Curry
  • Greg Fisilau

Summary:
Highly competitive and dynamic. Earl and Curry are standout performers, supported by a group full of energy, versatility, and breakdown ability.

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