Joe Marler punished by Steve Borthwick following controversial comments
10/31/2024 06:43 PM
England's Joe Marler is no stranger to controversy, but his latest social media slip-up had him backpedaling just days before the showdown against New Zealand.
The outspoken 34-year-old prop found himself in hot water after calling for the haka—a pre-match ritual of the All Blacks—to be "binned."
His bold words, posted on X, dubbed the haka “ridiculous,” sparking instant backlash.
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By Thursday, Marler was taking a different tone: “Hey rugby fans. 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,” he posted on X.
“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.”
Grateful for the cultural schooling he received in the aftermath, Marler added, "Now roll on 3pm on Saturday for a mega rugby occasion. England by six points."
In a twist, Marler had left the England camp earlier in the week due to personal matters, which initially ruled him out of the New Zealand clash. But he was still on call if Ellis Genge or Fin Baxter were unable to suit up.
Head coach Steve Borthwick, however, didn't let Marler's slip go unaddressed, seemingly opting for a no-nonsense approach by putting Trevor Davison on standby instead.
One thing's clear: England's boss wants his team ready to rumble—no smack talk allowed.
Wan You Name England’s Match Day 23 from Their Epic 2019 World Cup Upset Over the All Blacks?
Rugby fans, gather ’round! Let's rewind to that fateful day in 2019 when England shocked the rugby world by toppling the mighty All Blacks in the World Cup semifinals.
With a nail-biting score of 19-7, Eddie Jones’s men delivered a masterclass in strategy and grit, proving that anything is possible on the grand stage of rugby.
But here's the challenge: can you name the legendary 23 players who fought tooth and nail to secure that stunning victory?
From powerhouse forwards to lightning-fast backs, each player played a crucial role in this unforgettable triumph. Think you know the squad that made history? Let's put your memory to the test!
The post Joe Marler punished by Steve Borthwick following controversial comments appeared first on Ruck.
