MARO ITOJE will lead England into the upcoming Six Nations after replacing Jamie George as captain.

George has been in charge since the 2023 World Cup but is demoted to vice-skipper alongside Ellis Genge, with his Saracens team-mate Itoje taking on the role on a permanent basis for the first time.

Itoje has previously deputised for George when the hooker has been replaced in the second half of games and the promotion continues the 30-year-old lock’s rise as a leader, having been appointed his club’s captain at the start of the season.