England defender Joe Marler has apologized on social media after being criticized for his “contrary” comments ahead of Saturday’s game against New Zealand at Allianz Stadium.
After leaving camp on Monday morning for personal reasons, Marler will not face the All Blacks in the autumn opener and is doubtful for the remaining games against Australia, South Africa and Japan.
The 34-year-old said via his X account on Tuesday that the “ridiculous” haka “needs binning” as his statement about the Maori war dance was scrutinized and left England captain Jamie George fearing his comments could inflame New Zealand :
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All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson responded to Marler
Head coach of the All Blacks Scott Robertson hit back on Thursday, calling the ban a “great rugby tradition”.adding that Harlequin should have chosen his words more carefully as Marler took to social media on Thursday night to apologize to anyone he may have offended.
In an apology shared in three messages on his X social media account, Marler said: “Hey rugby fans. Just wanted to jump in and apologize to all the New Zealand fans I upset with my poorly worded tweet earlier in the week.
“I meant no malice in asking for it to be shut down, I just want to see the restrictions lifted to respond without sanction.
“How good were Cockerill/Hewitt (Richard Cockerill and Norm Hewitt), Campese (Australia’s David Campese), France ’07, or Samoa-England Rugby League Answers. Create entertaining drama before kick-off.”
“My sudden attempt to stir up debate about it hit home and I should have explained things better.
“I’m grateful for the education I received about how important haka is to New Zealand culture and I hope others will have a better understanding as well.
“Now on to Saturday at 3pm. England (to win) by six points. I’ll turn my attention now to looking for the box. Big Love x.”
Did Marler’s comments spur New Zealand?
George believes Marler has “motivated the bear” with his comments and does not share his team-mate’s views, although he fears they could provide extra motivation for the 2023 World Cup runners-up.
“Hack has always been something I’ve enjoyed growing up as a big rugby fan and I’ve been lucky enough to face it a few times,” said George. “I love the history of it. we don’t always agree on everything, so we have a disagreement on this particular topic. It’s classic Joe, to be honest.
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England players Jamie George and Ben Spencer and coach Kevin Sinfield reflect on what it means to play against the All Blacks.
“He’s always been a bit close with some posts on social media, so nothing comes as a surprise with him. We talked a little bit this week and I just said, “Happy friend, thank you very much.”
“It’s a conversation Joe and I actually had a week ago. thoughts about haka, what can we do about it, things like that. I think he’s pushed the bear a little bit.”
Marler’s follow-up post on Wednesday included an emoji suggesting he was “fishing” for a response, but All Blacks boss Robertson was impressed by his comments.
“I wonder if he could be a bit more vocal about it,” said Robertson at the New Zealand press conference. “It’s part of our DNA. We are we believe it’s a great rugby tradition.
“The crowd enjoys it and they know it’s a special occasion because how often do we come here. All the Pacific do it beforehand to honor where they’re from. It’s not just about the All Blacks, but also to our country. It means a lot to us.”
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