England captain Maro Itoje is set to start against Scotland after returning from his mother Florence's funeral in Nigeria. The 31-year-old missed the Six Nations opener against Wales, joining the squad late after traveling to his family's ancestral home in Delta State.

Itoje described the past weeks as 'incredibly sad, incredibly emotional' but expressed gratitude for the team's support. His mother, who became a devoted rugby fan, attended countless matches worldwide, from Premiership finals to British and Irish Lions tours. Itoje will win his 99th cap in Saturday's Calcutta Cup clash.

Beyond rugby, Itoje has founded charities for disadvantaged children in the UK and Nigeria, runs an art gallery, and holds degrees in politics and business. He recently spoke about English identity at a Downing Street event, criticizing Manchester United owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe's comments about Britain being 'colonised by immigrants' as 'inaccurate' and 'clumsy'. Itoje emphasized his pride in both his English and Nigerian heritage as he prepares for this emotionally charged return to international rugby.