Borthwick wants to give Itoje the summer off ahead of England's Tests against South Africa, Fiji and Argentina — a call that looks straightforward on paper after Itoje's gruelling Lions year, but hinges entirely on the fitness of George Martin and Alex Coles this weekend. If either picks up an injury, the plan unravels and Itoje stays in. The piece explores how thin England's second-row depth is, and what it means for their preparation heading into a Test window that includes the Boks.
AnalysisGeneralThe Guardian Rugby · SuperSport Rugby· updated
Borthwick plans to rest Itoje for England's summer Tests — but it hinges on second-row fitness
Borthwick wants Itoje rested for the summer Tests — South Africa included — but England's second-row depth is so brittle that one injury to Martin or Coles this weekend could force a rethink.
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