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“Maro Itoje Declares England Rugby ‘The Mecca’ Amid Global Breakaway League Concerns”

Maro Itoje has emphasized that representing England is “the mecca” of rugby, amidst concerns that top players might leave for a proposed global breakaway league. The idea of an eight-team franchise competition has been circulating, raising questions about the future of international rugby. Itoje, a key player for England for nearly a decade, stated that he was not aware of the discussions surrounding the new league until they emerged in the news last week. Given his prominence in the sport, he would likely be a target for any such breakaway initiative. (RFU) has made it clear that players who choose to participate in the breakaway league would not be selected for the national team, reinforcing the importance of playing for England in the eyes of Itoje and other players.

Question 1: What did Maro Itoje say about playing for England in relation to the proposed global breakaway league?

Answer: Maro Itoje described playing for England as “the mecca,” emphasizing its significance despite concerns about a potential exodus of players to a breakaway league.

Question 2: What is the nature of the proposed competition that has raised concerns among players?

Answer: The proposal involves an eight-team franchise competition that would operate independently of traditional rugby structures.

Question 3: How would the Rugby Football Union (RFU) respond to players participating in the breakaway league?

Answer: The RFU has stated that it would not select any players who participate in the breakaway league for the England national team.

Question 4: Was Maro Itoje aware of the breakaway league proposal before it was reported in the news?

Answer: No, Maro Itoje mentioned that he was unaware of the mooted competition until the news broke last week.

Question 5: Why might Maro Itoje be a target for the breakaway league?

Answer: As one of the leading players for England over the past decade, Itoje would likely be high on the wishlist of those organizing the breakaway league due to his talent and experience.