Joe Marler’s Haka Controversy: A Cheeky Take on Rugby Traditions
Ah, the haka! That iconic pre-match ritual that sends shivers down the spine—unless you’re Joe Marler, who’s just gone and labeled it “ridiculous”. That’s right, folks! England rugby prop Joe Marler sparked quite the uproar when he suggested that New Zealand’s traditional war dance “needs binning”. And here I thought the only thing needing binning was that leftover lasagna in my fridge!
Marler, clearly a master of keeping calm and stirring the pot, deactivated his X (formerly known as Twitter) account faster than you can say “rugby tradition” after receiving a torrent of backlash. But he couldn’t resist temptation, returning to social media to clarify he was “just having a bit of fun.” Fun? Is that what the kids are calling it these days? Well, if poking the bear is fun, Marler deserves an award—maybe a “Best Winding Up Merchant” trophy!
As England gears up to face the All Blacks this Saturday, the controversy is heating up, much like a particularly heated pre-match curry. Marler took to the digital ether to claim, “It’s only any good when teams actually front it with some sort of reply.” I mean, fair point, Joe! It’s a little hard to reply when you’re mesmerized by the sheer intensity of people who could probably bench press your car.
The fallout was not without its defenders! Some fans agreed, suggesting the haka should be kept out of the limelight and perhaps performed in the changing room—right next to the after-match pies, of course. Others proposed England respond with a Morris dance—because nothing says “we’ve got this!” quite like a few dainty foot taps and some red faces!
Marler wasn’t done yet. In a cheeky second post, he slipped in, “Also needed to satisfy my narcissism.” At least he’s self-aware! But really, Joe, if you’re fishing for attention, you don’t need to bait the haka. Simply post a picture of your dog, and that’ll do the trick!
In all seriousness, though, it’s clear Marler has a knack for pushing buttons—and he’s not the first! Rugby has a rich tradition with its own peculiar rituals, yet the haka stands out as a flashpoint of cultural pride and competitive spirit. And it’s all fun and games until someone remembers England was fined £2,000 back in 2019 for crossing the halfway line while the All Blacks did their thing. Who knew not knowing how to use a tape measure could cost you that much?
To add to this drama, while Marler’s banter may be a dig at the traditions of the game, it also ignites genuine discussions about respect for cultural practices. New Zealand Rugby hasn’t commented yet, but I’d wager they’ve got the popcorn ready for this one! Meanwhile, the Rugby Football Union is opting for radio silence. Perhaps they’re just trying to avoid being seen as the awkward parent in this family squabble.
No matter where you stand—whether you’re Team Haka or Team Marler—this scrum is polarizing, entertaining, and a delightful reminder of just how passionately people engage with sport. So, bring on the banter, and let’s see how this plays out. Just remember, Joe: next time, don’t poke the bear unless you’re prepared to *dance* with it!
Now, if only I could get Marler to handle my Twitter discussions… I could use the help!
England rugby star Joe Marler has ignited a fierce controversy after he described New Zealand’s iconic pre-match haka as “ridiculous,” controversially suggesting that it “needs binning” to enhance the game atmosphere.
The 34-year-old prop, who has spent his career at Premiership Rugby club Harlequins, took the drastic step of deactivating his X account shortly after making his controversial remarks about the All Blacks’ revered tradition. However, he later re-emerged on social media, attempting to clarify his stance by claiming he was “just having a bit of fun.”
As England prepares for a high-stakes showdown against New Zealand this Saturday in the opening match of the Autumn Nations Series at Twickenham, Marler’s comments continue to resonate deeply within the rugby community.
England’s Joe Marler later suggested he was baiting followers. Pic: PA
Marler boldly stated on Tuesday evening: “The haka needs binning. It’s ridiculous.” He added, “It’s only any good when teams actually front it with some sort of reply. Like the league boys did last week,” referring to a recent encounter that showcased the dynamics of pre-game performances.
His remarks sparked an immediate backlash on social media, with one user condemning him: “Have a bit of respect for other cultures.” Another user expressed disappointment, saying, “Ahh Joe. I thought you were one of the good guys. Unfollowed.” This reflects the sensitive nature of such cultural discussions in the realm of sports.
Despite the criticism, Marler found a handful of supporters in the mix. One user echoed his sentiment, stating, “If they want to do it, do it in the changing room. Totally bored of it.” Meanwhile, another chimed in with, “Agreed, we have to watch that war dance whilst they get all jacked up and psyched up.” These comments highlight a divide in opinion on the traditional haka.
Some fans even humorously suggested alternative responses, with one advocating that the England team should “do some Morris dancing” to “wind people up,” and another playfully branding Marler a “prize wind-up merchant.”
Upon returning to X on Wednesday morning, Marler attempted to downplay the incident by posting: “Context is everything. Just having a bit of fun trying to spark interest in a mega rugby fixture. Some wild responses.” He cheekily ended with a fish emoji, implying he was intentionally baiting his followers for reactions.
In a follow-up post, he jokingly added, “Also needed to satisfy my narcissism,” further showcasing his playful approach despite the backlash.
Although Marler will not participate in this weekend’s match, having recently recovered from a broken foot sustained during the first Test against the All Blacks in July, he remains a key figure in England’s rugby landscape as he makes his way back into the wider squad.
Interestingly, rugby union rules prevent opposing teams from crossing the halfway line while the haka is being performed, a regulation that sparked controversy in 2019 when England was fined £2,000 for breaching this rule during the World Cup semi-final after Marler crossed the line as the team lined up in a V shape. The adherence to this tradition intensifies the competitive atmosphere.
The Rugby Football Union has opted not to comment on Marler’s provocative post, while New Zealand Rugby has been reached out for their official position on the matter.