Former England lock George Kruis has expressed strong support for the national team’s recent management of captain Maro Itoje, endorsing the decision to rest the star player during the demanding summer schedule. Kruis also voiced optimism about the potential impact of veteran forward Courtney Lawes ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Itoje, who has been one of the most utilized players in Test rugby over the past decade, was rested by England head coach Steve Borthwick during last month’s Nations Championship. The tournament featured a rigorous series of matches in South Africa, Liverpool, and Argentina. Kruis noted that this management decision came after a particularly intense period for Itoje, who not only captained England, the British and Irish Lions, and club side Saracens, but also endured personal hardship with the passing of his mother in December.

“Itoje has played many minutes and carries significant responsibilities with leadership, lineouts, and the captaincy,” Kruis said. “There’s a lot that goes into that mentally. Given everything he has been through, it’s good man-management to allow him to physically and mentally recharge.”

Kruis emphasized that removing key players at times from the playing field is a strategic choice to safeguard their wellbeing. He added that resting Itoje also sets a positive example for the team about the importance of player welfare. Kruis described the move as “an absolute no-brainer” given the challenges ahead for both England this autumn and at the 2027 World Cup in Australia.

In addition to backing the management of Itoje, Kruis highlighted the value of returning veteran Courtney Lawes. Lawes, who reversed his international retirement announced during the 2023 World Cup, has rejoined the Premiership with Sale Sharks after two seasons with Brive. At 38 years old, Lawes could potentially participate in his fifth global tournament.

Kruis, who earned 45 England caps before retiring in 2022, praised Lawes’s physical presence and experience. “Teams that succeed at the World Cup typically feature a large, physical second row who can add weight in scrums and play a major role on the field. Lawes provides that,” Kruis said. He also highlighted the benefit of having depth and options in the second row alongside players like Ollie Chessum, George Martin, Alex Coles, Maro Itoje, and Charlie Ewels.

England’s recent form included a heavy 45-21 loss to South Africa in Johannesburg, followed by wins over Fiji and Argentina. Kruis described South Africa as a benchmark side, noting their robust style of play and difficulty to overcome, particularly at home. Nevertheless, he regarded the victories that followed as positive indicators and steps forward for the England squad, especially given the opportunities to introduce new talent.

“South Africa are a very strong team that play a tough brand of rugby,” Kruis explained. “Being in their heartland makes it even tougher. But those two wins off the back of that defeat were encouraging, especially with blooding some younger players. It’s evidence of progress.”