The China Mail - England captain Itoje rested for Nations Championship

Itoje will miss the opening phase of the inaugural Nations Championship in a bid to avoid suffering from burn-out.

The 31-year-old lock led the British and Irish Lions to a series victory against Australia last year, then played in the November Tests and this year's Six Nations campaigns, as well as mourning the death of his mother.

He has completed more Test minutes than any other player in the game over the last decade.

After second rows Alex Coles and George Martin came through the weekend without any fitness issues, England head coach Steve Borthwick was able to rubber stamp Itoje's break from international duty.

Borthwick has handed the captain's armband to hooker George after he skippered England throughout 2024 before being replaced by Itoje.

"We've selected a squad with a good blend of experience and emerging talent," Borthwick said.

"I am sure by preparing well and continuing to demand the highest standards from one another every day, we will be well placed to meet the challenge of a very demanding summer schedule."

The squad includes five uncapped players in Noah Caluori, Greg Fisilau, Benhard Janse van Rensburg, George Kloska and Vilikesa Sela.

England start their campaign against South Africa in Johannesburg on July 4.

Squad

Forwards: Ollie Chessum, Arthur Clark, Alex Coles, Luke Cowan-Dickie, Tom Curry, Theo Dan, Ben Earl, Charlie Ewels, Greg Fisilau, Ellis Genge, Jamie George (capt), Joe Heyes, Ted Hill, George Kloska, George Martin, Beno Obano, Asher Opoku-Fordjour, Guy Pepper, Henry Pollock, Vilikesa Sela

Backs: Seb Atkinson, Noah Caluori, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, George Ford, Tommy Freeman, George Furbank, Benhard Janse van Rensburg, Alex Mitchell, Cadan Murley, Max Ojomoh, Henry Slade, Fin Smith, Marcus Smith, Ben Spencer, Freddie Steward, Jack van Poortvliet

U.Chen--ThChM