England’s Joe Marler Faces Criticism for “Binning” Haka Comment

England rugby prop Joe Marler has drawn criticism following a social media post in which he stated the haka “needs binning” ahead of the upcoming Saturday fixture against New Zealand. Marler, aged 34, is not scheduled to participate in the initial Autumn Nations Series game at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium. However, he has recovered from a broken foot injury sustained in July during the first Test against the All Blacks, allowing him to join the broader squad. Within the sport of rugby union, rules stipulate that opposing teams are prohibited from advancing beyond the halfway line during New Zealand’s performance of the Maori war dance. “The haka needs binning. It’s ridiculous,” Marler wrote on X, external, prior to deactivating his X account shortly thereafter. Upon reactivating his account, the Harlequins prop then posted, external: “Context is everything. Just having a bit of fun trying to spark interest in a mega rugby fixture. Some wild responses [finishing emoji]. Big Love x.” He further stated that he “also needed to satisfy my narcissism”. In 2019, England incurred a £2,000 fine for crossing the halfway line when they formed a V shape to confront the haka prior to their Rugby World Cup semi-final encounter with New Zealand. Cultural advisers voiced criticism of Marler’s initial remark concerning the haka. Mana Epiha commented that Marler was clearly “a little bit lost”, external, and Dr Karaitiana Taiuru observed a lack of cultural appreciation on his part. Taiuru further remarked, “Calling for it to be binned with no reasoning shows a lack of appreciation for traditions which is a contradiction for any rugby player – cultural appreciation and lack of open mindedness.” The regulation prohibiting crossing the halfway line is not applicable in rugby league, where direct responses and face-offs are more frequently observed. Last Sunday, when Samoa’s rugby league squad executed their traditional war dance, the Siva Tau, preceding their inaugural Test match against England, the participants engaged in a fierce standoff. Marler subsequently added, “It’s only any good when teams actually front it with some sort of reply. Like the league boys did last week,” before his post was initially removed. Marler’s remarks elicited varied reactions online, with one X user commenting: “Have a bit of respect for other cultures.” Conversely, another user stated: “I’m a Kiwi and I’m over it. I think they should only do it at home Tests. Yes it should be challenged.”