Joe Marler, England’s seasoned prop, has all but confirmed his forthcoming retirement from international rugby post the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
This revelation came in the wake of the recent match against Wales, where Marler offered an apology to a jersey-seeking fan, along with a telling statement, “I apologize, but I can’t give it to you. This will be my last one.”
The implications of Marler’s words strongly suggest that his recent appearance at Twickenham might mark his final start for the England team.
Marler, who has previously retired from international rugby twice, had dropped hints earlier that the 2023 Rugby World Cup would signal his exit from the sport at this elite level.
Although the age of 31 is relatively early for a prop to retire, Marler is attuned to his body and believes his rugby tank is running low.
He expressed, “Can I manage to play another three or four years at this age? Probably not. But what do I want to do?”
Marler is now setting his sights on a life beyond rugby, having initiated this transition by launching his podcast, “The Joe Marler Show.”
The show doesn’t centre around rugby and allows Joe to explore his other interests.
His future plans also do not involve coaching, as he aspires to embark on a media career detached from the realm of sports.
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NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it’s nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He’s such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It’s a toss of a coin for me… and it’s come down in Folau’s favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He’s so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he’s a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you’ll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He’s another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma’a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we’ve been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it’s pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I’ve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I’m pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”