Jamie George Reflects on Captaincy Change Ahead of Milestone Match

TWICKENHAM, England — In the days leading up to England’s match against Italy in the Six Nations, Jamie George revealed that he contemplated retiring from international rugby after losing the captaincy earlier this year. The 34-year-old hooker, who had taken over as skipper from Owen Farrell before the last championship, was replaced by Maro Itoje in January.

“It was hard, it was difficult, it was frustrating and obviously then that makes you question if you can do it,” George said. He admitted to questioning whether he could continue his England career after the abrupt change in leadership.

George spoke to his family before making the decision to press on, stating, “But ultimately it was ‘what is your gut feel?’ Initially I didn’t know if I could go back, but I watched the Ireland game [this year’s Six Nations opener, which he missed due to injury] and all I wanted to do was be back on that field because I missed it.”

Despite the challenges, England finished third in the 2024 Six Nations under George’s leadership, although the team has struggled in subsequent matches, suffering five consecutive defeats against New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa in the summer and autumn. Under his captaincy, England won five of 12 Tests.

George recounted that England head coach Steve Borthwick delivered the news of his demotion over coffee in a direct conversation in St Albans. “I think he was surprised by me questioning myself,” George added. “I think it would hit anyone hard. It was a job that I loved, I was incredibly proud to be able to do it and I felt I was at the start of something. It was a surprise.”

He expressed a desire for a more private moment to process the change, as Borthwick notified him just a day before Itoje’s promotion was publicized.

Upon Itoje’s appointment, the defense was acknowledged for his previous leadership. “He led the team brilliantly,” Itoje said. Borthwick acknowledged the benefit of having a captain like Itoje on the field for the entirety of the match.

George drew inspiration from cricketer Joe Root, who in 2022 transitioned out of the England Test captaincy to improve his performance. “His batting improved significantly off the back of not being captain anymore, and he looked freed up and enjoying himself,” George noted. “I am not saying I am the Joe Root of the England rugby team, but I have taken inspiration from that.”

George, serving as vice-captain alongside Ellis Genge, is set to earn his 100th England cap in the upcoming match. He recently came off the bench to secure crucial victories against France and Scotland.

With ambitions for a third British and Irish Lions tour this summer and aiming to play for England at the 2027 World Cup in Australia, George remains committed to his international career. He reflected on his journey, revealing, “I never thought I would be here, ever, in a million years. Genuinely it is surreal. I am blown away by it all.”

Since making his England debut in 2015, George has achieved significant accolades, including three Six Nations titles and a place in the 2019 World Cup final. Despite a tough path, he emphasized the importance of resilience and ambition.

“I feel that I have done that well. I am as ambitious now as I was when I was 25 and I first came into the team,” he said.

As he prepares for his milestone appearance, George aims to cement his status among the greats of the game, joining the ranks of players like Ben Youngs and Owen Farrell.