Joe Marler has paid special tribute to his ‘hero’ Ewan Laws today as he took on an All Black XV.
The 14-year-old, who was named Quins Supporter of the Year back in June, is a mainstay at the Stoop with Marler being his favourite player.
When Marler last represented the Barbarians, an image of Marler and Laws went viral following the game at Twickenham.
Today, as Marler pulled on the famous black and white hoop jersey once again, the prop had Ewan’s name written on his socks.
Players who represent the Barbarians would usually wear the socks of their club, but Marler took the opportunity to add a more personal touch.
Spending time with some other young fans, as he always does, at half-time, Marler can be seen to have the name written on one of his socks. He has his kids initials written on the other.
Joe Marler facts:
- Marler started his career at Haywards Heath RFC in Sussex where he played in the same side as fellow England international Billy Twelvetrees
- After joining the Quins academy in 2008, the prop spent some time on loan to Esher and Worthing
- He’s been nicknamed Croissant. In his own words, it’s because: “The boys think I have a nose that looks like a French pastry.”
- Marler was captain for England at U18s level and represented the U20 squad throughout the Junior World Championship in summer 2009
- He is also one of the hosts of The Joe Marler Show podcast with Tom Fordyce
Joe Marler Dream XV:
Marler’s cheeky selection features seven All Blacks legends in his team, with three from Ireland, two Welsh, two Australians and a Fijian nicknamed ‘The Bus’.
JOE MARLER: DREAM TEAM
FRONT-ROW
1. Tony Woodcock (New Zealand)
2. Rory Best (Ireland)
3. Carl Hayman (New Zealand)
SECOND-ROW
4. Alun Wyn Jones (Wales)
5. Paul O’Connell (Ireland)
