Steve Borthwick backs Maro Itoje for Lions captaincy after England miss out on Six Nations title regardless of rampant 10-try win over Wales
Maro Itoje led England to a record-breaking victory over Wales but it was not enough to snatch the Six Nations crown.
England scored 10 tries in a merciless display but France’s victory over Scotland meant the trophy was lifted in Paris.
Itoje’s side finished second in the standings — their best finish since 2020 — and coach Steve Borthwick backed his skipper to lead the Lions this summer.
‘Maro has been absolutely outstanding,’ said Borthwick. ‘He leads by example every day, and has stepped up his game.
‘He has improved in many areas this campaign and set an example. He’s an experienced player at Test level and Lions level.
‘I’ve got full confidence in Maro’s ability to lead the Lions should Andy [Farrell] ask him.
Maro Itoje captained England to a record-breaking 68-14 win over Wales in Cardiff on Saturday
Saracens lock Itoje (left) scored the first of England’s 10 tries at the Principality Stadium
After the Saturday’s big victory, Itoje was praised by England head coach Steve Borthwick
‘We as a coaching team talk about part of our role being to get as many players on that plane as possible. Our job is to help them do that. Kevin Sinfield proposed it.
‘Hopefully there will be a lot of England players heading Down Under on that Lions tour in a couple of months’ time.’
England ended the competition with four victories from five, with their only defeat coming at the hands of Ireland in the first round.
Speaking after one of his most impressive victories as head coach, Borthwick added: ‘You can see the growth in the team. For a period there, getting the wins we were just falling a little bit short. Gradually, the team have stuck to the process and taken enjoyment in the process of getting better.
‘I know I enjoy the process of getting better. I’m really pleased for the players — and the supporters, who were phenomenal today — that they are seeing the fruits of their labour on the pitch.’
Rookie No 8 Henry Pollock scored two tries on his debut, rounding off the tournament with glowing praise from skipper Itoje: ‘Henry has been with the squad now for a little while. He was with us in our first camp in Girona, then he went away and played a couple of games for the Under 20s.
‘It’s always a telltale story for a young player — he’s absolutely annoying when he’s on the other side, an absolute pest. I’m delighted that he was able to get an opportunity, and when he came on, he played so well.’
