Maro Itoje has always been a player with a commanding presence, both on and off the field. His selection as the captain of the 2025 British & Irish Lions squad has garnered significant attention, thanks to his impressive physicality and leadership qualities. Known for his muscular build and intense focus, Itoje seems to be the epitome of the strong, authoritative leader that the Lions value. Yet, as he prepares for the upcoming tour of Australia, his focus is not only on physical prowess but also on the qualities of effective leadership.
During the Lions squad announcement, Itoje’s imposing figure was hard to miss, but what stood out more was his deep sense of responsibility and understanding of what it means to captain a team with such a rich history. In a meeting with past Lions captains, including Martin Johnson, Alun Wyn Jones, and Sam Warburton, Itoje sought out valuable lessons on leadership. These figures, who have etched their names in rugby lore, shared insights that resonated with the 30-year-old lock.
Johnson, whose leadership helped guide the Lions to a historic series victory over South Africa in 1997, shared how quickly circumstances could shift, citing his sudden elevation to the Test team in 1993. For Itoje, this served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of leadership and the importance of adaptability. Warburton, renowned for leading the Lions to a series draw in New Zealand in 2017, led by example, focusing on putting his body on the line, while Jones brought a blend of pride, passion, and professionalism to his leadership.
Itoje’s approach to leadership mirrors those of the players he admires. While not the loudest or most vocal in the locker room, he understands that leading by example is often more powerful than words. He has taken this mentality into his new role as England’s captain earlier this year, a position he relishes despite his late appointment.
Beyond rugby, Itoje has developed a multifaceted persona. Known for his intellectual curiosity and philanthropy, he’s passionate about topics beyond the sport, including politics and art. His visit to Downing Street, where he discussed his mixed heritage and shared jokes with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, showed his ability to engage in conversations beyond the rugby world. This side of Itoje demonstrates his versatility and understanding of leadership in broader contexts, all while remaining fiercely competitive on the field.
As captain of the Lions, Itoje aims to instill a sense of unity and toughness within the squad. The forward pack, in particular, is an area where he wants to see strength and cohesion. He recognizes that the Lions’ success depends not just on individual talent but on fostering a collective spirit where players have each other’s backs. His emphasis on playing with passion and energy aligns with the expectations fans have of the Lions, who have historically been known for their fierce commitment and tenacity.
The Australian team, under coach Joe Schmidt, presents a formidable challenge. With a revamped squad that boasts dynamic backs and a powerful forward pack, including players like Will Skelton and Taniela Tupou, the Wallabies are a different proposition from the team two years ago. Itoje, however, believes that the Lions, armed with their own brand of toughness and strategy, are well-equipped to handle the challenge.
In preparation for the tour, Itoje has made it clear that success will require more than just physicality. It will take a combination of intelligence, adaptability, and team spirit. Drawing on his own experiences and the wisdom passed down by former Lions captains, Itoje is ready to lead his team into what promises to be a memorable and challenging series. The responsibility of captaining such a distinguished team is immense, but with the talent around him, Itoje is confident that the Lions can create something special on their tour to Australia.
