Harlequins prop Joe Marler rules himself out of England’s Australia tour and admits he needs break
Harlequins prop Joe Marler has pulled out of England’s summer programme, including next month’s three-Test tour of Australia, after admitting he needs time away from the game.
Marler was an integral member of England’s front-row as head coach Eddie Jones guided the Red Rose to their first Six Nations Grand Slam since 2003 in March, although the 25-year-old has been no stranger to controversy.
He was handed a two-match ban for labelling Wales prop Samson Lee “Gypsy boy” during their Six Nations encounter, while he was suspended for two weeks after kicking Grenoble’s Arnaud Heguy in April.
“After speaking to Eddie, I have decided that the best thing is to take a rest and not go to Australia,” said Marler, who earlier this month revealed he was seeing a sports psychologist to address a “lack of professional control”.
“Whenever you play for England, you have to be 100 per cent and unfortunately I’m not in that place at the moment. It’s not a decision I’ve come to lightly, but I feel I would be letting my teammates and my country down if I were to tour.
“I think a short rest will really help my recharge my batteries so I can start next season with the energy and focus that’s needed to perform at the highest level.”
Australian Jones has backed Marler’s decision and has confirmed that the loosehead forward remains pivotal to his plans to turn England into the No1 Test nation in the world.
“He’s a young man with a very bright future,” said Jones. “There’s no doubt in my mind he’ll use this time wisely and come back feeling refreshed and ready to be part of England again.”