This video can not be played Maro Itoje named British and Irish Lions captain British and Irish Lions captain Maro Itoje says that he is now a better communicator and team-mate than when he toured New Zealand with the team as a "brash and naive" 22-year-old. Itoje was the youngest player on the 2017 trip, but came into the team after the Lions had lost the opening Test to the All Blacks and helped his side salvage a series draw with two superb performances. "I definitely think I've matured," he toldRugby Union Weekly at the Lions squad announcement at the O2. "I have a greater sense of who I am and what makes me tick and what I think is acceptable and what isn't acceptable. "I also think I've improved in the way I am able to communicate and relate to my team-mates. You understand things. "When you are 21 or 22, you are a little bit brash and a bit naive. In many ways that can be a strength because you are fearless, so you just attack things. "But now I've been around the block domestically and internationally and at Lions level so there's a whole load of experiences that I can count on and rely on." Itoje was a fans' favourite on the 2017 Lions' tour Itoje revealed he had missed a Bible study class in a hasty rearrangement of his schedule after learning on Tuesday he would lead the 2025 Lions tour. As well as appearing at a live squad announcement event at the O2 in London on Thursday, he had dinner with a group of former Lions captains on Wednesday evening. "I had to ask the lord for forgiveness for missing a session!" he joked. "To be at a dinner with some of the true icons of the game and be able to break bread, talk and listen to their stories and their experiences was special. "I was fortunate enough to sit next to Gavin Hastings and he was telling me that more people have been to the moon than captained the Lions." Itoje's captaincy experience is all relatively recent. It was only eight months ago that he was introduced to the media as the new Saracens captain at an event across London at Tower Bridge. He then succeeded club team-mate Jamie George as England captain in January in a promotion that took many by surprise. "I think God's timing is always the best time. I've never felt more competent and more ready for the role as I do now," he added. After starting at fly-half against Ireland in England's Six Nations opener, Marcus Smith played at full-back for the rest of the campaign One of the most keenly discussed positional dilemmas before the announcement was fly-half, with Scotland 10 Finn Russell and England duo Fin Smith and Marcus Smith eventually being picked ahead of Ireland's first-choice stand-off Sam Prendergast, England veteran George Ford and Racing 92's three-time tourist Owen Farrell. Head coach Andy Farrell said Marcus Smith's ability to play at full-back was key. Smith sees himself primarily as a fly-half, but after starting eight successive matches at 10 for England earlier this season he was shifted to a full-back role that he first occupied at points during the 2023 Rugby World Cup. "To go with three specialists in that type of position, you are tying yourself a little in knots, compared to if one or two of those could play in different positions," said Andy Farrell of his fly-half options. "It isn't just what happens on a Wednesday night [midweek fixture] on tour, but how you train the next day in preparation for a Test match or whatever. It is a balance. "If Marcus is a 10/15 or a 15/10, he is not competing with a Sam Prendergast, who is a great player, or George Ford, who is in great form. "They [Prendergast and Ford] are competing with Finn Russell and Fin Smith. "Some guys at their clubs wish they weren't versatile because they are probably not nailing down a position, but when it comes to tours like this and World Cups they are worth their weight in gold." This video can not be played Watch: The full British and Irish Lions squad list Ellis Genge, who is heading on his first Lions tour,was nearly taken off his chair,externalas his Bristol Bears team-mates celebrated by giving him a friendly push. Northampton Saintsposted a video,externalof their squad reacting to 20-year-old Henry Pollock being called up. He was quickly followed by England trio Tommy Freeman, Alex Mitchell and Fin Smith. Sale Sharkscaptured the moment on their team bus,externalwhen Luke Cowan-Dickie and Tom Curry found out they would both be heading on a second Lions tour, with England wing Tom Roebuck particularly happy. Is Wales captain Jac Morgan the first player to find out about his Lions selectionwhile on a plane?,externalPossibly. Ospreys were on their way to Durban, South Africa for their United Rugby Championship game against Sharks. This article contains content provided by X. We ask for your permission before anything is loaded, as they may be using cookies and other technologies. You may want to readXâs cookie policy,externalandprivacy policy,externalbefore accepting. To view this content chooseâaccept and continueâ. Given they did not have the plane to themselves, there were no wild celebrations, just a few cheers of "go on Jacy boy" and gentle applause. England lock Ollie Chessum was the only Leicester Tigers player named and he watched the announcement at home, where he waswarmly embraced by his younger brother.,externalHis England team-mate Ben Earl was also watching from home, with fellow Saracens Theo Dan and Andy Onyeama-Christie alongside him,to help celebrate.,external This article contains content provided by X. We ask for your permission before anything is loaded, as they may be using cookies and other technologies. You may want to readXâs cookie policy,externalandprivacy policy,externalbefore accepting. To view this content chooseâaccept and continueâ. Scotland full-back Blair Kinghorn, who is out injured for Toulouse and in a knee brace, was sat at home with his partner, who looked more nervous than him, and he let out an"Allez",externalwhen his name was read out. Wales scrum-half Tomos Williams was based at home when he got the news of his call-up, but that didn't stop hisGloucester team-mates celebrating.,external Glasgow Warriors all gathered as a squad to watchScott Cummings,,externalZander Fagerson,,externalHuw Jones,externalandSione Tuipulotu,externalbe named - all four got a loud roar!
I was brash and naive in 2017, now I'm ready - Itoje
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Maro Itoje Reflects on Growth as He Takes on Captaincy of British and Irish Lions"
Bbc News
7.8
TruthLens AI Summary
Maro Itoje, recently appointed as the captain of the British and Irish Lions, reflects on his growth since his first tour in 2017, where he was seen as a 'brash and naive' young player. At just 22 years old, Itoje was the youngest member of the squad during the Lions' tour of New Zealand. Despite the team's initial defeat in the opening Test, Itoje played a pivotal role in securing a series draw with two outstanding performances. In an interview, he expressed that he has matured significantly in both communication and team dynamics, stating, "I definitely think I've matured." He emphasized his enhanced understanding of himself and his teammates, acknowledging that while youthful bravado can be a strength, his experiences over the years have equipped him with valuable insights into leadership and collaboration. Itoje's journey since 2017 has included notable experiences at both domestic and international levels, which he believes will benefit his captaincy in the upcoming tour.
Upon being informed of his captaincy, Itoje humorously noted the need to ask for forgiveness for missing a Bible study class due to the sudden schedule change. He shared his excitement about dining with former Lions captains, highlighting the significance of learning from their experiences. Itoje's leadership trajectory has been rapid, as he only took on the role of Saracens captain eight months prior and was named England captain earlier this year. He conveyed confidence in his readiness for the Lions captaincy, stating, "I’ve never felt more competent and more ready for the role as I do now." The squad announcement has also sparked discussions regarding player positions for the tour, particularly in the fly-half role, with head coach Andy Farrell emphasizing the importance of versatility among players. As selections were announced, reactions from players and teams showcased the excitement and camaraderie surrounding the Lions tour, marking a significant moment in the rugby calendar.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article provides insights into Maro Itoje's reflections on his growth as a player and leader since his debut with the British and Irish Lions in 2017. It highlights his journey from being a young, inexperienced player to taking on the captaincy role for the upcoming Lions tour. Itoje's self-awareness and maturity are emphasized, suggesting a narrative of personal development that resonates with both fans and aspiring athletes.
Intended Purpose of the Article
This article aims to showcase Itoje's evolution as a player and leader, presenting him as a more thoughtful and capable captain compared to his younger self. By sharing his experiences, the article promotes a positive image of personal growth, which can inspire readers and fans. Itoje's reflections serve to build anticipation for the upcoming tour, suggesting that his leadership could significantly impact the team's performance.
Public Perception
The narrative constructed around Itoje is designed to evoke admiration and support from the rugby community. By portraying him as a matured leader, the article fosters a sense of confidence among fans regarding the Lions’ prospects under his captaincy. This strategy aligns with the broader goal of unifying the fan base and enhancing the team’s image, especially in a competitive sports landscape.
Potential Omissions or Concealments
While the article focuses on Itoje's personal growth, it may downplay the challenges the Lions faced in previous tours or any controversies surrounding team dynamics. Such omissions could create a more sanitized version of reality that emphasizes positivity over complexity, potentially leaving out critical perspectives on team performance and leadership challenges.
Manipulative Nature of the Article
The article has a low degree of manipulative content, as it primarily focuses on Itoje's positive development. However, the choice of language and framing could be seen as an attempt to steer public sentiment towards a favorable view of his leadership. This approach might be aimed at rallying support for the Lions ahead of a significant tour, although it does not appear to target specific groups or individuals negatively.
Comparative Analysis with Other Articles
When compared to similar pieces covering sports figures, the article shares common themes of personal growth and leadership. However, it stands out by focusing on a specific player’s journey rather than broader team dynamics or match outcomes. This focus can create a more intimate connection with readers who follow individual player stories.
Impacts on Society and Economy
The excitement generated by Itoje's captaincy may bolster interest in rugby, potentially leading to increased attendance at matches, merchandise sales, and overall engagement with the sport. This heightened interest can have positive economic implications for the sport, particularly in the UK.
Target Audience and Community Support
The article is likely to resonate with rugby enthusiasts, young athletes, and fans of leadership narratives. It appeals to those who value personal development and resilience, fostering a sense of community around shared values of growth and excellence in sports.
Market Influence
While the article does not directly impact stock markets, it may indirectly influence brands associated with the Lions or Itoje himself. Companies looking to promote athleticism or sportsmanship may find increased visibility through sponsorships or endorsements linked to Itoje's leadership role.
Geopolitical Relevance
There is no direct geopolitical significance tied to this article, but it reflects broader themes of leadership and teamwork that are relevant in various contexts. The focus on personal growth can resonate with current global discussions around leadership qualities in diverse fields, including politics and business.
Use of AI in Article Composition
There is no clear indication that AI was used in writing this article. However, if AI was involved, it could have influenced the language style, ensuring clarity and engagement. AI models could also assist in analyzing public sentiment to tailor the narrative effectively.
In conclusion, the article is reliable, providing a genuine reflection of Maro Itoje's growth and the excitement surrounding his captaincy. The focus on personal development and leadership aligns well with the values of the rugby community and serves to enhance the public's anticipation for the upcoming tour.