The 30-year-old, set to captain England against Fiji in Saturday’s Quilter Nations Series match at Twickenham, was involved in a late scuffle during last weekend’s 25-7 win over Australia.
“It was just a bit of squabbling,” Genge told Rugby Union Weekly. “We can’t whack anyone anymore, so it’s just a bit of argy-bargy. I enjoy the animosity of rugby. We’re an abrasive sport — we should relish that.”
Genge’s stance reflects a wider attitude within English rugby. The Premiership, England’s top-flight league, has leaned into its physical image this season, celebrating “big hits” and “brutal battles” as part of its rebrand.
Family Sacrifices and Leadership Challenges
While Genge thrives on the physical side of the game, he admits the emotional toll of international rugby has grown since becoming a father of three.
“Honestly, it’s been tough,” he said. “I don’t like leaving [my family] at home anymore. I told Joe Marler the other day that I understand why he packed it in — it’s difficult, packing up and leaving all the time.”
After six weeks with the British and Irish Lions this summer, Genge rejoined England’s camp for the autumn internationals, balancing pride with personal strain. “If I’m here, I’m all in,” he added. “You’ve got to be unapologetically committed.”
Third Stint as Captain
With Maro Itoje on the bench, Genge will lead England for the third time. His previous outings as captain came in two heavy defeats — a 53-10 loss to France in March 2023 and a 20-9 defeat to Wales in a World Cup warm-up.
“Yeah, record-breaker,” Genge joked. “But those horrible moments were important for our growth.”
Genge, known for fiery team talks during the Lions tour, says his leadership relies on emotion rather than tactics. “I’m not much of a tactician,” he said. “I’m good at the emotional and physical side — I’ll stick to that.”
Head coach Steve Borthwick praised Genge’s impact: “Ellis can deliver a message worth a thousand words with just a look. He’s the kind of guy players want to follow.”
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