- Joe Marler’s comments on the haka proved hugely divisive in New Zealand
- The pre-match routine sparked an exciting response from Steve Borthwick’s team.
After all the hype and days of debate, outrage, tension and anticipation over what would happen when talks turned to action, the Haka did not disappoint.
Joe Marler had kicked off the build-up to this clash at Twickenham with a social media post arguing that the All Blacks’ traditional pre-match challenge should be “scrapped” on the grounds that it is “ridiculous”. More pertinently, after stirring the pot, the veteran Harlequins prop went on to suggest that the whole routine only worked well when it provoked a response from the opposition.
Well, Marler’s wish came true; There was a response from England. But first, he had a chance to rebuild some bridges. As the teams warmed up, the off-duty loosehead shook hands with New Zealand head coach Scott Robertson and engaged in a seemingly jovial chat, allowing him to further clarify comments for which he had already apologized, to anyone offended kiwi.
There were many of those. England captain Jamie George admitted his frontrow teammate had “stirred up the bear” by questioning the validity of the Haka without a meaningful right of reply. It later emerged that the bear was armed, as All Black captain Scott Barrett claimed Marler had “loaded the gun” for a spicy encounter in south-west London.
When the time finally came, it lived up to expectations. Once the anthems were played, there was a roar from the crowd, sensing that an exciting show was coming. This is certainly what they witnessed.
England’s clash against New Zealand came amid controversy surrounding the haka.
Harlequins star Joe Marler called the ritual “ridiculous” but later apologized for his comments and was pictured with All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson.
The uproar generated by his comments ultimately only added to the spectacle at Twickenham.
England lined up slightly behind the halfway line and their supporters launched into a rendition of Swing Low Sweet Chariot as the visitors prepared to begin their war dance. Codie Taylor led it and was drowned out by chanting in the stands.
There had been talk of an English response on the field and, sure enough, when the Haka began, the home team, united, advanced forward until they reached the halfway point, staring at the rivals in front. That got the crowd even more excited, but also seemed to cheer up the Kiwis as they performed the Kapa O Pango version of the Haka with chilling intent.
Robertson’s team seemed to step up the intensity and aggression once England moved forward, advancing towards the men in white until they were just meters away. Seconds later, when the challenge was met, they turned to take their positions for kick-off, as did most of the English players. But Ellis Genge didn’t. For several seconds the prop remained still, staring in the direction of the New Zealanders.
It was a final gesture of discreet defiance. One point had been made clear. The challenge had been accepted. The mood was really set.