Oghenemaro Miles Itoje was born 28th October 1994 to Nigerian parents in London. In his five years of professional rugby he has become not only England’s stand out player but one of their significant players to help hunt down a World Cup trophy. But are we giving one of England’s best players enough credit?
In a recent interview Itoje spoke about his daily routine of switching off his phone at night, taking a hot shower and trying to get eight hours of sleep. In his spare time he writes poetry but declines to transcribe for his London teammates. He can also be seen enjoying various musicals or posing for the cover of Tatler magazine.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe Harrovian is now studying politics at the School of Oriental and African Studies. Before he ventured to Harrow on a rugby scholarship for the final two years of his education he attended St. Georges, Harpenden. The same school as England teammates Owen Farrell and George Ford.
Itoje could be compared to a lettuce. Taking away various layers to reveal the England powerhouse and gem that he has become. A calm and mellow guy becomes an aggressive and uncompromising rugby player who has captured his audience.
At the tender age of 19 he made his senior debut for Saracens against Cardiff Blues. Three years later, he helped lead Saracens to their European Champions Cup title. He later picked up the European Player of the Season award.
Aged 22 Itoje flew as the youngest touring British and Irish Lion to New Zealand. He appeared in all three tests and scored against the Maori All Blacks.
Spreading the word on rugby
With a politics degree behind him, Itoje is using his rugby platform to speak out about various current affairs. He has been vocal in speaking out about racism in sport and how rugby fans are ‘passionate but in a different way to football fans’.
The hardworking team leader is exceptionally mobile and sprightly for his position as a lock forward. His fast accelerating speed, ability to find wide channels and sensational success rate in turning over the ball at the ruck.
His line-out and open play has been described as some of the best in world rugby. Though, if you had to picket one weakness to his game he is often found on the wrong side of a penalty.
England’s Maro Itoje
Itoje is set to be an influential figure in England’s World Cup glory hopes and will have featured in two World Cups by the time his 25th birthday comes around. With such accolade behind him it is increasingly likely that the boy from Camden could become England’s most inimitable player and worthy of the credit that he deserves.
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