The point is that our three best forwards are Itoje, Launchbury and Kruis (in that order, IMO). If Itoje was just a lock (as Johnson or Kay were, say) there is no further debate but he is a superb blindside flanker in every aspect. I'd argue that allowing for his size, shape, pace, hands and rugby brain he is the most effective backrow carrier available. I'd go further and suggest that he is capable of being a better 6 than lock eventually, certainly if you value the effect he can have on a game. I see him as a future captain at 6.Puja wrote:I just don't get the Itoje at 6 idea. It's like the Launchbury at 6 one that came before it - why shift your best player out of position to accomodate someone who's not as good?
It seems especially barking considering it's being suggested to get Launchbury onto the pitch. Why not put him at 6 if you're fixated on playing a lock in the back row and leave our best functioning unit as it is?
Puja
You see him as a lock long-term. Fair enough. I can understand your argument that he might be (or become) our best lock. I'd argue, though, that he could be our best blindside by a far greater margin.