š¦ Maro Itoje: Englandās Disruptive Dynamo & Lionsā Leader
Etzebethās View: He speaks highly of ItojeāsĀ athleticismāhis ability to disrupt breakdowns, put pressure on scrum-halves, and dominate loose play.
Bio:Ā Maro ItojeĀ has been a mainstay of England rugby since his Test debut in 2016, rising through the Saracens system to become one of the sportās most recognisable figures.
Born in Camden, he quickly became a serial winner with Saracens, lifting Premiership and European trophies while establishing himself as one of the best locks in the world.
In 2025, Itoje was namedĀ England captainĀ and also becameĀ captain of the British & Irish LionsĀ for the tour of Australia, making history as the first Black man to lead the side and the first Englishman in the role since Martin Johnson in 2001.
He has featured in both the 2017 and 2021 Lions tours and now carries the responsibility of leading rugbyās most famous touring team. Off the pitch, Itoje is articulate and thoughtful, known for his interests in politics, art, and culture, making him one of the most well-rounded figures in the modern game.
šŖØ Brodie Retallick: The All Black Engine
Etzebethās Take: He counts Retallick among theĀ elite locksĀ heās had the privilege of competing against.
Bio:Ā Brodie RetallickĀ is one of the defining All Blacks of his era. Standing at over two metres tall, he earned more than 100 Test caps after making his debut in 2012.
Retallick was a central figure in New Zealandās Rugby World Cup triumph in 2015 and was recognised globally when he becameĀ World Rugby Player of the Year in 2014, one of the few locks ever to achieve the honour.
A product of the Chiefs, he helped them win back-to-back Super Rugby titles before later enjoying a stint in Japan with the Kobelco Kobe Steelers.
Known as much for his durability as his skill, Retallick has been a constant presence in one of the most competitive positions in world rugby. His mix of grit, consistency, and longevity make him a player admired across the globe.