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England rests Maro Itoje ahead of match against South Africa

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 24, 2026, 11:02 AM

Last updated Jun 24, 2026

England rests Maro Itoje ahead of match against South Africa

Summary

England senior assistant coach Richard Wigglesworth confirmed that Maro Itoje will be rested for the match against South Africa on July 4, along with subsequent Tests against Fiji and Argentina. This decision comes as Itoje has exceeded the recommended limit of 30 matches per season. Wigglesworth expressed confidence in the team's depth, mentioning players like George Martin, Alex Coles, and Ollie Chessum as options to step in. While concerns about travel logistics were raised, Wigglesworth assured that the players would be well taken care of during their itinerary in the Nations Championships.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Maro Itoje rested for matches against South Africa, Fiji, and Argentina
•Richard Wigglesworth supports the decision for Itoje's health
•George Martin and Alex Coles among players called up
•England's Nations Championships include tough travel challenges
•Steve Borthwick's tactical approach concerns South Africa's coach Rassie Erasmus

Latest Updates

11:02 AMYahoo Sports — England 'incredibly happy' to rest Itoje for Boks

What they're saying

"
England assistant coach Richard Wigglesworth says leaving Maro Itoje out of next month's game with world champions South Africa is the right decision.
— Yahoo Sports

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