Maro Itoje didn't hesitate when naming his toughest opponent, he couldn't get close

"I thought I’d be able to beat him for speed, on physical prowess alone. But I couldn’t get anywhere close. Not only was he technically brilliant but it was also the intelligence of how he called, found space and manipulated opponents.”

Join our Breaking News and Top Stories WhatsApp community for all the latest news direct to your phone.

When asked to name his toughest opponent by The Times he was less than open with his response.

“Good question,” he replied. “The other second row, outside of the locks in England, that I hold in the highest regard is probably … I don’t actually like complimenting people in my position to be honest.

"I don’t even want to give them the compliment. I guess we’ll leave it at that.”

However, during other interviews the 26-year-old has given a bit of an inside look into some of his opponents.

He didn't include Eben Etzebeth...

A dynamic and versatile rugby sensation, Charles Piutau hails from New Zealand and has lit up rugby fields worldwide with his electrifying pace and exceptional skills. Known for his stints with the All Blacks and Bristol Bears, Piutau is a true game-changer in the rugby world.

 Itoje said: ”

For me it’s always those quick guys you can’t quite get a hold of that give me the most trouble for sure. I’m not sure if I’ve played him this year but Piutau is a real handful.”

Welsh rugby legend and the embodiment of leadership, Alun Wyn Jones has earned his place among the sport's greats. As a seasoned lock forward, he has captained both the Welsh national team and the British and Irish Lions, demonstrating unwavering commitment and indomitable spirit on the field.

Itoje said: "He was on another level. I’ve got a lot of respect and admiration for Alun Wyn, and I always preferred having him as a teammate than going up against him. It's sad that I likely won't play with him again now.

"'It seemed like he was created in a lab.'"

A former England international and renowned rugby coach, Steve Borthwick has transitioned seamlessly into coaching after a successful playing career. His strategic insights and coaching prowess have made a significant impact on teams like England and Leicester Tigers, earning him respect in the rugby coaching fraternity.

10. Owen Farrell - £1.46 million ($2 million)
Saracens are making waves in the Premiership, and Owen Farrell, their skipper, is reaping the rewards. The bulk of his net worth, a cool £1.46 million, flows directly from his dedication to Saracens.

9. Maro Itoje - £1.46 million ($2 million)
Teammate to Farrell both at England and Saracens, Maro Itoje is on a trajectory to become one of rugby's highest earners. His salary, comparable to the national skipper's, showcases his potential.

8. Charles Piutau - £1.85 million ($2.5 million)
Former All Blacks player Charles Piutau's move to Bristol Bears came with an eyewatering salary. The club's investment in him during his five seasons speaks volumes about his impact.

7. Handré Pollard - £1.94 million ($2.7 million)
The lone South African in the top ten, Handré Pollard, made his mark when he left the Bulls for Montpellier. Rumored to be earning around R15 million per season at Leicester Tigers, Pollard is a financial force.

6. Beau Ryan - £7.72 million ($10 million)
Transitioning from Rugby League to a TV Presenter, Beau Ryan's career has been highly lucrative. With rumors swirling around a net worth close to R200 million, Ryan's financial success is no joke.

5. Mike Tindall - £9.98 million ($13 million)
A member of the 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning squad, Mike Tindall has had his fair share of off-field challenges. Despite legal troubles, his net worth stands at an impressive £9.98 million.

4. Jonny Wilkinson - £20.9 million ($29 million)
Jonny Wilkinson's iconic Rugby World Cup-winning drop goal in 2003 has translated into substantial wealth. As the second-richest Rugby World Cup winner, Wilkinson's financial success is a testament to his on-field brilliance.

3. Sonny Bill Williams - £21.8 million ($30 million)
A dual-sport star in Union and League, Sonny Bill Williams, made waves in endorsements and earned well during his stint in France. His net worth stands at an impressive £21.8 million.

2. Sir Bill Gammell - £38.8 million ($50 million)
Former Scottish rugby player turned businessman, Sir Bill Gammell, is a knight, philanthropist, and a friend to political leaders. With a net worth exceeding £38.8 million, Gammell is poised for success even beyond the rugby pitch.

1. Simon McDowell - £39.3 million ($54 million)
Refereeing at two Rugby World Cups, Simon McDowell's journey from player to referee has been financially rewarding. His net worth, driven primarily by his chemical company Kilwaughter, exceeds an impressive £39.3 million.

You have five minutes to name every club to have played in the Gallagher Premiership, all 28 of them, since the division was established back in 1987.

It’s more difficult than it sounds.

Good luck, and let us know how you do