Joe Marler has sent out a public apology after receiving backlash for saying the haka should be scrapped.
The England rugby star was pelted on social media and criticised by New Zealand boss Scott Robertson for slamming the Kiwis’ historic pre-game ritual.
Marler wrote: “The haka needs binning. It’s ridiculous.” After reposting a video of England and Samoa’s Rugby League stars recently going quite literally head-to-head in a fiery rendition of the haka, he added: It’s only any good when teams actually front it with some sort of reply. Like the league boys did last week.”
In Rugby Union, the opposing team is required to stand in their own half while the haka is performed. England were fined £2,000 in 2019 for standing in a V formation and encroaching on New Zealand’s half of the pitch ahead of their Rugby World Cup semi-final.
Having deactivated his X account and returned during a turbulent week, Marler admitted his wording could have been better when making his point.
“Hey rugby fans,” wrote the 34-year-old on Thursday evening. “Just wanted to jump on here and say sorry to any New Zealand fans I upset with my poorly articulated tweet earlier in the week. I meant no malice in asking for it to be binned, just want to see the restrictions lifted to allow for a response without sanction.
“How good were the [Richard] Cockerill/[Norm] Hewitt, [David] Campese, France ‘07, Tokyo ‘19 or Samoa vs England rugby league responses? Create some entertaining drama before kick off.
“My flippant attempt at sparking a debate around it was s***house and I should have done better at explaining things.”
Marler, who has left the England camp for personal reasons ahead of the Autumn Nations Series, added: “I’m grateful for the education received on how important the haka is to the New Zealand culture and hope others have a better understanding too.
“Now roll on 3pm on Saturday for a mega rugby occasion. England by 6pts. I’ll get back in my attention seeking box now. Big Love x”.
England kick off their autumn fixtures against New Zealand before subsequent clashes with Australia, South Africa and Japan. It is unclear whether Marler will return to the fold and play any part in the remainder of the Series after returning home to his family.
