Itoje, who signed a long-term contract in January, has made 181 appearances for Sarries since his debut as a teenager and he has won five Premiership titles and three European Champions Cups in that time.

But this will be a new era at StoneX Stadium with Farrell's departure, along with those of the three Vunipola brothers and the retirements of Alex Lewington and Sean Maitland, who all made significant contributions to their golden run of success.

However, for director of rugby Mark McCall, Itoje was the obvious choice to drive the new-look team on the field.

"You dont come across many people like Maro," said McCall.

"From his early days in our academy, at 14 years old, we all knew we were witnessing the development of someone special.

"He is the epitome of a Saracens player: fiercely dedicated to his craft, kind and compassionate to his teammates, and diligent in pursuing his education and charity work away from the field. He has always led by example."