Jamie George: The former England captain will retire at the end of the 2026-2027 season

It is difficult to think of a player more universally respected than Jimmy George.

It’s a reputation partly built on his ability on the pitch.

He burst onto the Test scene in 2015 as a relentless hooker on all pitches, with mobility, stamina and down-tempo pace.

His line break to help set up Conor Murray’s try and second Test victory in Wellington was crucial to the British and Irish Lions’ drag-and-drop Test series with New Zealand in 2017.

Now 35, some of his open-field style has disappeared, but his accuracy from set-pieces and calm mind are still highly regarded.

Against France in the Six Nations last year, under intense, late pressure, he hit a line-out throw to Ollie Chisum from which Elliot Daly went under the sticks for the match-winning try.

However, his ability to add to the team and his leadership off the field has stood out.

Lions coach Warren Gatland was impressed by his character, and George was a serious contender for the Lions’ 2021 tour captain – a pick that would have come from left field given the likes of Alun Wyn Jones and Maro Itoje were also in the party.

In 2024, George finally got the call, as Steve Borthwick asked him to succeed Owen Farrell as England captain. The question was asked on the same day George learned that his mother, Jane, had cancer.

George considered turning down the role, but his family convinced him otherwise. His determination to make the setting more enjoyable, human, and meaningful for players was a major change from previous systems that continues to pay off.

His term lasted only one year. Saracens teammate Maro Itoje takes over the role in 2025, and George, visibly frustrated by his demotion, has been considering ending his Test career.

He didn’t. He took the disappointment with magnanimity and kept playing. A promising and young English side will certainly have their character and level of quality as they aim to take part in the Rugby World Cup in 2027 for their last chance.

After six English titles, three European crowns and three Six Nations victories, the biggest total ever would be a fitting result.