It is difficult to think of a player more universally respected than Jamie George.
It is a reputation partly built on his ability on the pitch.
He emerged on the Test scene in 2015 as a relentless all-court hooker, with mobility, endurance and under-rated pace.
His linebreak to help set up Conor Murray’s try and a second-Test victory in Wellington was crucial in the British and Irish Lions’ nip-and-tuck drawn Test series with New Zealand in 2017.
Now 35, some of that open-field zip has gone from his game, but his dead-eyed set-piece accuracy and cool head is still highly valued.
Against France in the Six Nations last year, under heavy, late pressure, he nailed a line-out throw to Ollie Chessum from which Elliot Daly went under the sticks for a game-winning try.
However, his ability to add to and lead teams off the pitch has stood apart.
Lions coach Warren Gatland was so impressed by his character, George was a serious contender to captain the 2021 Lions tour – a selection which would have come from left field given the likes of Alun Wyn Jones and Maro Itoje were also in the party.
In 2024, George did finally get the call, with Steve Borthwick asking him to succeed Owen Farrell as England skipper. The question was posed on the same day George learned his mother Jane had been diagnosed with cancer.
George considered turning down the role, but his family convinced him otherwise. His determination to make the set-up more enjoyable, human and meaningful for players was a step change from past regimes that is still paying out.
His time in charge lasted only a year. His Saracens team-mate Maro Itoje took on the role in 2025 and George, clearly frustrated by the demotion, considered ending his Test career.
He didn’t. He dealt with the disappointment with magnanimity and played on. A promising and youthful England team will surely have his character and class on board as they aim for a Rugby World Cup in 2027 for his final hurrah.
After six English titles, three European crowns and three Six Nations wins, landing the biggest pot of all would be a fitting conclusion.
