Maro Itoje: England can beat everyone in Six Nations

New captain Maro Itoje has stated that England are capable of winning a Grand Slam in the upcoming Six Nations Championship, thereby refuting external criticism. Since their last title in 2020, England's highest finish in the tournament has been third, and they have only won 5 of their 12 test matches in 2024.

“If we play to our level, if we become the team that we believe we can be, we can win,” Itoje said in an interview with BBC Sport. “There isn’t a team in this tournament that we can’t beat.” He took over the captaincy this week from Jamie George, who only became captain 12 months prior.

The 30-year-old will lead England in their opening Six Nations match away to reigning champions Ireland on February 1st. England defeated Ireland at Twickenham's Allianz Stadium last year, and Itoje stated that the magnitude of the match can once again inspire the best from him and his teammates. “We know that Ireland are a great team and the Aviva Stadium in Dublin is a great place to play,” he said. “It’s a game that is worth us going all out for and being excited for. I can’t wait. These challenges bring the best out of me and the team.”

Itoje was part of the England team that defeated reigning champions and tournament favorites Ireland in Dublin on the opening weekend of the 2019 tournament, a match orchestrated by England coach Eddie Jones, who was sacked in 2022. The Australian, Jones, who will be a commentator for ITV Sport during this year's Six Nations, had previously questioned Itoje's leadership potential, claiming the second-row player was “very introverted” and “doesn’t usually influence people off the field”.

Itoje, who was promoted to captain of Saracens this season, believes he should focus on his on-field performance rather than words in the dressing room. “Every leader has to be authentic,” he said. “The most powerful way to lead is to lead through your actions. People hear your voice, but they really follow what you do and how you behave. That is definitely the way I want to lead.” He added: “I also understand the importance of communication and making sure you can get your message across and inspire your team, so I will work on that as well.”

Following the opening match against Ireland, England will play France, Scotland, and Italy at home before traveling to Wales on the final day.