1
Ellis Genge addresses possible England response to haka
By PA
Ellis Genge says England are planning their challenge to the haka after Joe Marler caused a storm by calling for New Zealand’s pre-match ritual to be scrapped.
Marler has since apologised after taking to social media to brand the haka “ridiculous” and stating it should be “binned”, but captain Jamie George fears his comments may have “prodded the bear”.
All eyes will be on the Maori war dance at Allianz Stadium on Saturday when the All Blacks launch the Autumn Nations Series – and England could add to the spectacle through their response.
“We’ll chat about it later on, we’ve got a meeting and we’ll see what the craic is,” Bristol prop Genge said.
“We’re not going to start climbing on each other’s shoulders, but we’ll sit there respectfully and watch it.
“I’ve only faced it once (in 2022). It’s massive in the history of the game. Most people who aren’t necessarily too interested in rugby still know what the haka is.
“I know some people are divided on it but I quite like it. It’s bit of a challenge. I’m a big fan of it and I don’t think we should get rid of it.
“You should be able to respond but everyone is respectful when they do that.”
Trending on RugbyPass
2
Joe Marler wasn't wrong to take a pop at the All Blacks' haka
3
Clear favourite emerges for Munster job amid Graham Rowntree exit
4
'We just haven't got big people like South Africa': Ex-All Black
5
Latest Comments
Hymn signing is massive in Wales and the singing of the Welsh national anthem in Cardiff is a famous rugby experience. Wales requested that NZ do the Haka before they responded by singing their National Anthem. New Zealand refused. That was when they did it in the dressing room. I don't think that's a big concession to make to Wales considering the match is in Cardiff.
Go to commentsEngland can't let this Haka business distract them. NZ and SA are good at being oblivious to outside distractions. Old English teams also. We will see.
Go to comments