# Rugby: England captain Maro Itoje believes his extended break from the sport has benefited him both mentally and physically. The 31-year-old forward has missed the Nations Championship Tests against South Africa, Fiji and Argentina in July. Itoje, who surpassed World Rugby’s player load guidelines of 30 matches per season in the two previous seasons, believes having the break could prolong his international career. He is expected to return to Test duty in November when England hosts Australia, Japan and New Zealand in the championship.
Rugby: England captain Itoje says extended break has benefited him