Pride as Itoje set to captain Lions!

RUGBY UNION

- by Duncan Bech, PA

MARO ITOJE has become the first English captain of the British and Irish Lions since Martin Johnson in 2001 after being placed in charge of the squad bound for Australia this summer.

Head coach Andy Farrell has turned to the 2017 and 2021 Lions tourist after he impressed while leading England during this year’s Six Nations, helping his team finish runners-up.

The 93-cap Saracens second row, who has also made six Test appear-ances for the Lions, was presented on stage at The 02 in London where Farrell named his squad for the 10-fixture itinerary.

"It feels amazing to be named Lions captain," said Itoje, who revealed that he found out the news when Farrell called him on Tuesday.

"I'm deeply honoured, humbled and I'll do my best to do the role justice. I’m very much looking forward to the challenge ahead, it’s going to be a great tour.

"I know the appetite amongst the players is extremely high, everyone is hungry to be a Lion and I can’t wait to play my role.”