Shocking Lions incident that had fans calling for Maro Itoje to be banned
Maro Itoje will take the reins as British and Irish Lions captain for Saturday's Test opener against Australia, marking the start of their summer campaign. He's expected to lead by example as the squad eyes an early series advantage.
Having stumbled against Argentina in Dublin prior to their trip, the Lions have since gone unbeaten in five matches on Australian ground. But things will heat up in Brisbane, where Itoje faces scrutiny both for his conduct and his impact.
That's partly due to past controversy. During the 2021 South Africa tour, the Saracens lock drew heavy criticism after a high-profile clash with Damian de Allende, with the 30-year-old becoming the focus of outrage from Springboks fans and South African media outlets for his in-game antics.
He was seen pressing his knee onto De Allende's upper body - specifically around the chest, shoulder, and neck - during the second Test in Cape Town. That match ended 27-9 in South Africa's favour, tying the series before the decider.
De Allende retaliated from the ground by dragging Itoje down and then shoving him in the head. Itoje responded by complaining to referee Ben O'Keeffe. Although no action was taken against either, the online backlash was severe.
One fan posted to X: "[Maro Itoje] should be banned after his knee on De Allende's neck! That's dangerous." Another user said: "Itoje also deserved red for this. This is intentional."
"Shocked he wasn't thrown out of the game," another comment read. One supporter wrote: "Unacceptable! Maro had a terrible game overall, actually. Complaining and moaning."
Itoje, though, seems to have turned the page. His recent form suggests he's grown into the leadership role, becoming a consistent presence throughout the preparatory fixtures. He was on the scoresheet in the Lions' 52-12 rout of the Queensland Reds, showcasing endurance and focus throughout the match.
Australia, led by ex-Ireland coach Joe Schmidt, will likely make Itoje a priority target as they seek to disrupt the Lions' plans at Lang Park.
Itoje is set to line up in the second row alongside Joe McCarthy and is one of four Englishmen in the starting side, joined by Ellis Genge, Tom Curry, and Tommy Freeman.
But more than anything, Itoje must avoid the sort of confrontations that invite disciplinary trouble. With the captain's armband now on his arm, fans will hope he's left the drama behind and embraced the responsibility.
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