XV mainstay de la Rose, at the center of a controversy this week after calling for the removal of the New Zealand haka, announced on Sunday that he will forgo selection. Certainly he who had already retired in 2018 before reconsidering his decision.
Joe Marler announced his retirement from international football on Sunday and, this time, the English mainstay (34 years old, 95 caps) assured that his decision was final. A clarification because the emblematic Harlequins player had already made this announcement in 2018 (to spend more time with his family), before returning to participate in the 2019 World Cup (where the XV de la Rose reached the final, beaten by South Africa).
“I know I’ve done this plenty of times before. So I should experience it more peacefully, but this time it’s the real thing, so it makes me a little weird, Joe Marler said on Instagram. It’s time for me to move on. (…) I feel very sad but also very proud to have had the chance, over the years, to represent England. I have so many good memories with this white shirt.
Held back for the November tour, he left the team earlier in the week
The prop was selected by England manager Steve Borthwick from among the 36 players who will play on the November tour, before leaving retirement on Monday to “personal reasons” and to give up the first test, this Saturday, against New Zealand.
“I have been really, really lucky to experience both the highs and the low lows in an England shirt. And I will appreciate them all because they are all important.”Joe Marler continued.
This announcement follows the controversy he sparked mid-week by writing “the haka was ridiculous” and that he “I had to remove it”. Faced with numerous and indignant reactions, he had to close his account a few hours before issuing a long apology.
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“I just wanted to thank you for your support over the years. I can’t wait to sit back, be one of you and enjoy the progress of this England team as a true fan. Thanks for everything, see you again.”
“Joe was a tough, uncompromising competitor on the field and a genuine, one-of-a-kind personality. »
England manager Steve Borthwick
Steve Borthwick commented on this announcement, assuring that Marler had been a “exceptional server” English rugby. “Joe was a tough, uncompromising competitor on the field and a genuine, one-of-a-kind personality. We will miss his humor, his sense of fun and the energy he brought to the team. We are grateful for everything he has given to English rugby.”greeted XV coach de la Rose.
On Saturday, after England’s Test match loss to the All Blacks at Twickenham, Marler went to New Zealand coach Scott Robertson to apologize to him after his comments about the haka.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Rugby Expert Jamie Collins
Time.news Editor: Good day, Jamie. Thank you for joining us to discuss the recent developments surrounding Joe Marler, particularly his retirement announcement from international rugby. This has certainly been a rollercoaster week for the 34-year-old. What’s your perspective on his decision to step away from the England squad once again?
Jamie Collins: Thank you for having me. Joe Marler’s recent retirement announcement indeed came as a surprise, especially considering his history with this decision. After previously retiring in 2018 only to return for the 2019 World Cup, it has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. This time, he seems more resolute, which he communicated through heartfelt reflections on his time in the England shirt.
Time.news Editor: Absolutely, he mentioned feeling a mix of sadness and pride. Do you think there’s a deeper significance to him leaving the international stage again, especially with the backdrop of his controversial comments on the haka?
Jamie Collins: That’s an interesting point. Marler’s comments about the haka being “ridiculous” and suggesting its removal certainly sparked a significant backlash. It indicates that while he may have strong opinions about the game and its traditions, such comments can overshadow an athlete’s achievements. His departure might be a way to avoid further distractions and focus on his club career, where he can express himself freely.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of distractions, Marler had to close his social media accounts due to the uproar. How does the intersection of social media and athletes’ public personas impact their careers today?
Jamie Collins: Social media amplifies every word and action in today’s sports landscape. While it can be a powerful tool for engagement, it also leaves athletes vulnerable to backlash. For someone like Marler, who has always been outspoken, this can be a double-edged sword. It’s vital for athletes to curate their online personas carefully, and perhaps Marler is recognizing the need for a strategic retreat following his recent comments.
Time.news Editor: It’s certainly a delicate balance. Given Marler’s history and his contributions to the team, how do you think his absence will impact the England squad moving forward?
Jamie Collins: Marler is a seasoned player with extensive experience, having achieved a significant 95 caps. His absence will be felt, especially given the leadership and skill he brought to the front row. However, this also presents an opportunity for younger players to step up and fill that gap. England coach Steve Borthwick has a chance to reshuffle the team dynamics and bring in fresh talent for the November tour.
Time.news Editor: Very true. As we look ahead, do you think we’ll see Joe Marler return to international rugby in the future?
Jamie Collins: It’s hard to say definitively. Given his previous pattern of returning after retirement, there’s always a possibility. However, he seemed quite firm in his statement this time. If he finds fulfillment and satisfaction in club rugby and works on personal priorities, he might decide that international rugby is behind him for good. Ultimately, it will depend on how he feels in the coming months and years.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Jamie. It will be fascinating to watch how this situation unfolds and how Marler’s story continues to develop. Your insights are always appreciated!
Jamie Collins: Thank you! Always a pleasure to discuss the intricacies of rugby with you. Let’s see what the future holds for Joe Marler and the England squad!