• Maro Itoje named captain of the British and Irish Lions for the upcoming Australia tour.
• He is the first Englishman to lead the Lions since 2001 and the first Black captain in history.
• Itoje has significant experience, having previously toured with the Lions in 2017 and 2021.
• The Lions will play against Argentina in Dublin on June 20 before facing the Wallabies.
• Itoje expressed being "deeply honoured and humbled" by the appointment.

Maro Itoje has been appointed captain of the British and Irish Lions for their forthcoming tour of Australia, making him the first English player to hold this position since Martin Johnson in 2001. Itoje, a 30-year-old lock from Saracens, has a distinguished track record and is set to embark on his third Lions tour, having previously participated in 2017 and 2021, according to Channel News Asia and Reuters.

In a heartfelt statement, Itoje expressed his excitement about the role, saying, "It’s a tremendous honor and a tremendous privilege.” He noted that he is eager to meet the challenge of leading such a prestigious team and acknowledged the hunger among players to be selected as Lions, as reported by Channel News Asia and Africanews.

The Lions will play an initial match against Argentina in Dublin on June 20 before commencing their tour matches in Australia, which includes tests against the Wallabies. Itoje’s selection came after Ireland captain Caelan Doris was sidelined due to a shoulder injury. This pivotal decision came during an announcement where Itoje celebrated in full Lions uniform, holding the team's mascot, as described by Africanews and Reuters.

Alongside his captaincy, Itoje led England to a second-place finish in the Six Nations Championship earlier this year, showcasing his leadership capabilities. Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall remarked on Itoje's development as a captain, noting his leadership and consistency throughout the season, according to Africanews and Reuters.