"I thought I’d be able to beat him for speed, on physical prowess alone. But I couldn’t get anywhere close. Not only was he technically brilliant but it was also the intelligence of how he called, found space and manipulated opponents.”
England, Lions and Saracens lock Maro Itoje doesn't like to praise players he comes up against
When asked to name his toughest opponent by The Times he was less than open with his response.
“Good question,” he replied. “The other second row, outside of the locks in England, that I hold in the highest regard is probably … I don’t actually like complimenting people in my position to be honest.
"I don’t even want to give them the compliment. I guess we’ll leave it at that.”
However, during other interviews the 26-year-old has given a bit of an inside look into some of his opponents.
He didn't include Eben Etzebeth...
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#3. Charles Piutau
Itoje said: ”
For me it’s always those quick guys you can’t quite get a hold of that give me the most trouble for sure. I’m not sure if I’ve played him this year but Piutau is a real handful.”
#2. Alun Wyn Jones
Itoje said: "He was on another level. I’ve got a lot of respect and admiration for Alun Wyn, and I always preferred having him as a teammate than going up against him. It's sad that I likely won't play with him again now.
"'It seemed like he was created in a lab.'"
#1. Steve Borthwick
Itoje said:
Steve Borthwick, Head Coach of England Rugby during the England Rugby Captains Run ahead of the Six Nations Match between Wales and England at Principality Stadium, London on 24 Feb 2023 (Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK)
