Saracens will begin their 2025/26 Gallagher Premiership season without a number of their big names, according to reports.
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While Owen Farrell is expected to make an immediate return when Saracens face the rebranded Newcastle Red Bulls later this month, and Elliot Daly is also poised to come straight into contention, others will be taking extended rest following a long summer.
Lions captain Maro Itoje, along with Ben Earl and Jamie George, will not feature until October as part of managed returns after their summer exploits.
Itoje, fresh from leading the Lions to a historic 2-1 series win Down Under, has been enjoying a honeymoon in Santorini with his new wife, Mimi, following their traditional Nigerian wedding at the end of August. The 30-year-old returned to the UK earlier this month but has continued celebrations, hosting a lavish reception at London’s Devere Grand Connaught Rooms on Friday.
The event saw a star-studded turnout, with Saracens, England and Lions teammates among the guests. Alex Lozowski, Elliot Daly, Ollie Lawrence, Nick Isiekwe, Marcus Smith and Ben Earl were all in attendance, joining in traditional Nigerian dress—and even a TikTok dance captured by Andy Onyeama-Christie.
Itoje and Mimi took centre stage, showcasing a series of vibrant outfits and infectious energy. Reflecting on the celebrations, Itoje shared on Instagram: “Uhrobo culture to the world… In case you haven’t realised I had my traditional Nigerian wedding last weekend… A time was had.”
Mimi, a model and artist, joined her husband in Australia earlier this year to celebrate his Lions success. With the wedding festivities now behind him, Itoje will turn his focus back to rugby, aiming to carry that winning momentum into the new season for both Saracens and England.
“Not at the level” – Four Springboks and four Lions in 2025 World XV
The British & Irish Lions may have returned from Australia with a 2–1 series victory, but selection into the current World XV has been far less generous.
Despite Maro Itoje leading the side to glory as captain, only four Lions make the cut—evidence that while the tour was successful on the scoreboard,
it didn’t necessarily produce a team packed with the form players of world rugby. South Africa and New Zealand dominate the line-up, with France and Italy also making strong contributions.
World XV
1. Ox Nché (South Africa — Loose-head Prop)
The Springboks’ scrum weapon. Ox Nché’s combination of power, technical precision, and low-body positioning has humbled some of the best tight-heads in the world. He’s been in relentless form, topping performance charts and setting the tone for South Africa’s physical dominance.
2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland — Hooker)
Ireland’s dynamic hooker was a constant bright spark in 2025—scoring tries, leading the set-piece, and offering a constant carrying threat. His Lions tour was standout, even if it ended in controversy with a short suspension. Sheehan’s blend of skill and aggression makes him arguably the most in-form No. 2 in the world.
3. Tyrel Lomax (New Zealand — Tight-head Prop)
Now firmly established as the All Blacks’ anchor on the tight-head side, Lomax offers brute force in the scrum and strong contributions in the loose. His work rate around the field complements his set-piece reliability.
4. Eben Etzebeth (South Africa — Lock)
A veteran enforcer who still plays with the same bite he had a decade ago. Etzebeth’s line-out presence, defensive steel, and leadership remain vital to every team he represents. A genuine intimidator.
5. Maro Itoje (England — Lock)
Captain of the victorious Lions in Australia, Itoje led with both physicality and composure. His tour performances were tireless—dominating the air, disrupting opposition ball, and setting the emotional tone for the squad.
6. Tadhg Beirne (Ireland — Lock/Back-Row)
A turnover machine and line-out threat, Beirne’s versatility makes him a coach’s dream. Whether at blindside or in the second row, he consistently delivers work rate, breakdown steals, and intelligent support play.
7. Pieter-Steph du Toit (South Africa — Lock/Back-Row)
Known for his tireless tackling and unmatched work ethic, du Toit thrives in the big moments. His ability to shift between lock and flanker adds valuable flexibility to any pack.
8. Ardie Savea (New Zealand — No. 8)
A one-man highlight reel, Savea mixes explosive ball-carrying with clever link play and crucial turnovers. His leadership and athleticism make him indispensable for the All Blacks.
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