Maro Itoje said he was not aware of any plans for a breakaway rugby competition and suggested he would not jeopardize playing for England rugby if such a venture developed.
Last week, news broke of the launch of a franchise tournament that would take place outside rugby’s existing structures, with organizers taking inspiration from the Indian Premier League (IPL) and Formula 1 cricket.
While The Independent Aware that discussions are still at a relatively early stage, a number of high-profile agents and players have been approached about the possibility of signing deals.
Itoje does not, at this stage, appear to be one of them, insisting after England’s defeat to South Africa that the media reports last week were the first time he had become aware of proposals.
There is hope that a new league could slot in alongside international rugby, but with the Rugby Football Union (RFU) committed to only selecting England-based players, any rebels could be faced with a choice between new franchise contracts and international involvement.
And Itoje is clear that representing your country remains the pinnacle.
“The first time I heard about it was when it broke [in the press]”, said the lock. “It was the first time I heard about it. We will wait and see.
“Playing for England is Mecca. I don’t really know the details yet, but wearing this rose is extremely important to me and my teammates.
Details remain unclear on the proposed competition, which would benefit from significant financial support from the United States. Reports suggest a possible 14-game season played in major cities around the world.
The idea of a shorter campaign and lucrative contracts would obviously appeal to players increasingly frustrated by the demands placed on them by clubs and countries.
Itoje has expressed concern that he will be forced to miss key games for Saracens ahead of England’s Autumn Nations Series campaign in a year that could well include a British and Irish Lions tour next summer.
But with Steve Borthwick’s side yet to win in November, the 30-year-old is certain he will want to be involved against Japan on Sunday in England’s final game of the year.
“I would always put my hand up to play,” stressed Itoje, who would win his 88th cap if named in the squad. “I don’t take these opportunities for granted. I would love to have the opportunity to play next week.
“There’s obviously a different challenge with Japan, but this week it’s another opportunity. We had three weeks where we weren’t successful. This is an opportunity for us as players to continue to build and improve. This is a new opportunity for us to attack new opposition.