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Maro Itoje, whose real name is Oghenemaro Miles Itoje, has risen to the highest level of English rugby and was just named captain of the national squad for the 2025 Six Nations Championship.
Itoje was born to Nigerian parents in Camden, London, and his rise from a versatile athlete in his early years to the captain of England’s rugby team is evidence of his extraordinary talent and commitment.
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Early Years and Rugby’s Inception
From an early age, Itoje’s athletic ability was apparent. He participated in basketball, football, and athletics while attending Salcombe Preparatory School and then St George’s School in Harpenden. He even competed for England in the shot put at the U17 level.
Rugby, which would become his passion and vocation, was not introduced to him until he was eleven years old. His time at Harrow School helped him refine his rugby talents, which laid the groundwork for his future success.
Rise to Professional Stardom
In 2012, Itoje signed his first professional deal with Saracens, making his debut the following year. His influence was felt right away, as he helped the team win several Premiership titles and the European Rugby Champions Cup.
Early on, he demonstrated his leadership abilities by leading the England U20 squad to a Six Nations Under 20s Championship in 2014, when he scored a try in each match and won the Man of the Tournament award. He co-captained the squad to win in the IRB Junior World Championship the same year.
Global Recognition and Guidance
Itoje’s senior international debut came during the 2016 Six Nations Championship, where his performances were key in England securing a Grand Slam. His versatility allowed him to flourish both as a lock and a flanker, demonstrating movement, agility, and strategic insight on the field.
He has played a key role in England’s victories over the years, including several Six Nations championships and a second-place finish in the 2019 Rugby World Cup. He has received three nominations for World Rugby Player of the Year for his outstanding play.
Jamie George was replaced as England rugby team captain by Itoje in January 2025 by head coach Steve Borthwick. Important considerations in this choice, according to Borthwick, were Itoje’s “world-class status” and the regard he enjoys among teammates.
On February 22, 2025, Itoje led England to an exciting 16–15 victory against Scotland in the Calcutta Cup, their first home victory over Scotland since 2017. This result quickly confirmed Itoje’s leadership.
Beyond the Pitch
Itoje is renowned off the field for his dedication to social causes and intellectual interests. He graduated from the School of Oriental and African Studies with a degree in politics and Warwick Business School with an MBA in 2023.
He established The Pearl Fund in 2023 with the goal of assisting with children’s education in Nigeria, Ghana, and other African nations, demonstrating a deep commitment to his Nigerian roots.
Itoje has also argued in favor of rugby’s accessibility, saying that the Six Nations should remain on free television in order to increase rugby’s popularity.
Photo: @maroitoje | Instagram
