Saturday 19 May 2018 07:34, UK
Maro Itoje says he never considered sitting out England's three-Test tour of South Africa next month in order to take a rest.
The Saracens lock was a key performer in last summer's drawn British and Irish Lions Test series against world champions New Zealand.
He is also at the heart of his club's Aviva Premiership title push that continues with Saturday's play-off clash against Wasps.
If Saracens reach next week's Premiership final at Twickenham, Itoje will then have just a few days to himself before embarking on England's summer tour and games in Johannesburg, Bloemfontein and Cape Town.
"There was no conversation with Eddie [England head coach Eddie Jones] about having a rest," he said.
"I didn't want to. I feel good. I would have been very upset if that decision was made for me.
"I haven't played South Africa before, but I am fully aware of what the challenges are going to be. They are a good team with good individuals.
"I feel as if it is an important part for any player's game to help the team move forward. Whatever role I play, I hope I can contribute to the team moving forward and their success."
Watch England v Barbarians on Sky Sports Action from 2:30pm on May 27. Sky Sports will also be showing England's three-match tour of South Africa in June.
