Joe Marler Criticizes Haka Ahead of Match

Joe Marler, the England rugby player, has sparked outrage in New Zealand by declaring the All Blacks' traditional Haka 'needs binning' and calling it 'ridiculous' in a post on social media. His comments have drawn sharp criticism from politicians and cultural advisors in New Zealand, who argue that such statements show a lack of respect for Maori traditions. Despite the backlash, some view Marler's remarks as a way to boost interest in the upcoming match, claiming they have generated significant attention and excitement. Marler later clarified that he believes the Haka would be more engaging if teams were allowed to respond directly, referencing a recent rugby league match where players faced off closely. Although Marler will not play due to injury, his comments have reignited discussions about the cultural significance of the Haka and the rules surrounding its performance. This isn't the first time Marler has found himself at the center of Haka controversy, having previously crossed the halfway line during the ritual, resulting in a fine for England in 2019.