England omit Maro Itoje from summer training squad to manage workload
England head coach Steve Borthwick has left captain Maro Itoje out of his 26-player training squad to manage the forward’s heavy workload ahead of the summer tour.
Discussions are ongoing between Borthwick, the 31-year-old lock, and head of performance Phil Morrow regarding a complete rest during the upcoming Nations Championship.
The Saracens star could miss high-profile fixtures against South Africa, Fiji, and Argentina following an exceptionally demanding 12 months.
The experienced forward recently led the British and Irish Lions to a series victory in Australia and suffered the tragic loss of his mother in December.
Uncapped prospects earn international call-ups
The newly announced training group will assemble at Pennyhill Park this week to prepare for a preliminary clash against a France XV in Vannes on 19 June.
The national team boss has taken this opportunity to evaluate fresh talent, handing a first senior call-up to Harlequins prop Will Hobson.
Sale hooker Nathan Jibulu, Bristol tighthead George Kloska, and Saracens lock Hugh Tizard are also hoping to impress in the pack.
Players involved in the impending Premiership semi-finals between Northampton, Leicester, Bath, and Exeter remain unavailable for selection.
Gruelling schedule and rehabilitation
Further uncapped additions feature in the backline, with Saracens wing Tobias Elliott joining club-mate Noah Caluori in the senior setup.
Gloucester full-back Ben Redshaw also returns to the fold, having previously trained with the elite squad as a teenager during the 2023 World Cup.
Meanwhile, three established internationals will attend the camp strictly to continue their injury rehabilitations:
- Luke Cowan-Dickie
- Immanuel Feyi-Waboso
- Ellis Genge
Following the fixture in France, the squad faces a daunting July itinerary with consecutive Saturday tests in Johannesburg, Liverpool, and Santiago del Estero.