England XV Training Squad Announced for France XV Match: Maro Itoje Absent, Captaincy Speculation, and Summer Campaign Preview
England's head coach, Steve Borthwick, has announced a 33-man training squad for the upcoming England XV versus France XV match in Vannes. Notably, Maro Itoje is absent from the squad due to ongoing discussions about managing his workload. The squad, excluding players from the Gallagher PREM Final, will train at Pennyhill Park before heading to France for the uncapped fixture on June 19.
The absence of Maro Itoje has sparked speculation about England potentially resting their captain during the summer campaign. With no replacement captain named yet for the France XV match, England is expected to reveal the decision closer to the game day. This match will serve as England's final warm-up before the start of the Nations Championship, where they will face South Africa, Fiji, and Argentina in July.
The England training squad includes a mix of forwards and backs, with players from various clubs such as Leicester Tigers, Saracens, and Bath Rugby. The squad will be preparing for a busy summer schedule, with all of England's summer fixtures set to be broadcast live on ITV Sport. The coaching staff is keen on managing players' minutes ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, emphasizing the importance of player welfare and performance.
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