Maro Itoje Joins Elite British and Irish Lions Captains After Historic Series Win in Australia
Maro Itoje has become one of the select British and Irish Lions captains to lead their team to a series victory in the southern hemisphere, joining rugby legends like Willie John McBride.
British and Irish Lions captain Maro Itoje has joined a prestigious group of rugby legends after leading his team to a series win in Australia. The achievement places him alongside iconic figures such as Willie John McBride, the oldest surviving Lions captain who led the 1974 undefeated tour in South Africa.
McBride, 85, congratulated Itoje, praising the difficulty of winning a series in the southern hemisphere. "Well done, son. It’s never easy to win down here and they’ve achieved it," he said, reflecting on the evolution of rugby since his era.
Legacy and Leadership Across Generations
While McBride’s captaincy was marked by a smaller squad and fewer staff, Itoje’s leadership reflects modern rugby’s complexities. Despite differences, both share the pride of leading the Lions to victory. Itoje also stands out for his off-field contributions, notably his Pearl Fund, which supports disadvantaged Nigerian youth.
"It’s a tremendous honour to be in such esteemed company," Itoje said. "Being a Lion is something every British and Irish player cherishes. It’s rare and special, bringing together different nations and styles to form strong bonds."
Power, Strategy, and Endurance
Now 30, Itoje has played in eight consecutive Lions Tests and will extend that to nine. Known for his strategic brilliance and physical power, he combines a thoughtful leadership style with a strong voice on social issues, including anti-racism.
His dedication is evident in his consistent performances, having played nearly every minute of England’s Six Nations matches over six years. Itoje values the people and experiences from the tour as much as the rugby itself.
Chasing Perfection: The Final Test
The Lions aim to complete a historic 3-0 series sweep against Australia, a feat not achieved since McBride’s 1974 team. Itoje emphasized the team’s desire to perform at their best and make the tour memorable for years to come.
"We owe it to ourselves and each other to finish strong," he said. "This tour is already memorable, but we want it to live long in the memory."
"Winning a series with the Lions is the highest honour in rugby, bridging generations and uniting diverse players under one goal."
This topic was reported by BBC Sport.
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