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Tom Hamilton, Senior Writer
Maro Itoje has said playing for his country “is the Mecca” for him, as talk of a breakaway league continues to rumble in the background ahead of England’s final match of the autumn series this weekend.
The breakaway league is in the early stages of development, but sources have told ESPN, the rough plan would be to establish eight franchises in the men’s game, with matches played all over the world. It is understood the investors — with interest coming from both the U.S. and Europe — are keen to recruit some of the world’s best talent.
A source told ESPN that the biggest names in the sport, both from tier-one nations and emerging nations, are being targeted by the project which is not relying on funding from the Middle East.
Sources have told ESPN the breakaway league would not conflict with international rugby, meaning players could continue playing for their country. But for England players, unless there is some shake-up of the status quo, any player who opts to join the breakaway league would be prohibited from playing for their country.
The RFU’s policy sees England coach Steve Borthwick only able to pick players who compete in the Gallagher Premiership. And Itoje says the importance of playing for England is paramount for him.
“Playing for England is the Mecca,” Itoje said. “I don’t really know any of the details of it as yet, but wearing this rose is extremely important to me and my teammates.
“The first time I heard of [the breakaway league] was when it broke. That was the first time I heard about it. We’ll wait and see.”
Up next for Itoje is Japan on Sunday as England look to end their losing run. They have been defeated in six of their last seven matches, and will look to halt their five-match losing streak against Japan at Twickenham.
Borthwick is likely to shuffle the team a little, but Itoje is keen to play, despite featuring in all three defeats this November.
“I would always put my hand up to play. I don’t take these opportunities for granted. I would love the opportunity to play.”
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