New Zealand coach makes stance clear on the haka after England rugby star called for it to be banned
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New Zealand head coach Scott Robertson has defended the haka after England prop Joe Marler called for it to be scrapped.
Marler, who left England's camp on Monday for personal reasons, wrote on social media: "The Haka needs binning. It's ridiculous."
Robertson responded by emphasising the cultural significance of the traditional Maori war dance.
"The haka for us is a custom. It's a part of who we are. It's our DNA. We believe it's a great tradition of rugby," Robertson said at New Zealand's team announcement press conference.
New Zealand head coach Scott Robertson has defended the Haka after England prop Joe Marler called for it to be scrapped.
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Robertson further addressed Marler's comments, suggesting the England prop might have chosen his words more carefully.
"I know Joe. I wonder if he wished he could have articulated himself a little bit better on that," Robertson said.
The All Blacks coach highlighted the haka's importance beyond just the team. He explained: "It's not just about the All Blacks, it's about us as a country so it means a lot to us."
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England rugby star Joe Marler believes New Zealand's iconic haka is 'ridiculous'PARobertson also praised past respectful responses to the Haka, such as England's V-shape formation before their 2019 World Cup semi-final.
"It's great, it's what we're all about. The response has got to be meaningful and respectful," he added.
Marler's comments provoked a backlash in New Zealand, including from David Seymour, leader of the ACT party, which is part of the coalition government.
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New Zealand have defended the haka after England star Joe Marler called for it to be banned
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"I love the Haka. It wouldn't be the All Blacks if they didn't do the Haka," Seymour told reporters outside Parliament.
The politician also took aim at Marler's intelligence, stating, "Who is this Joe Marler guy? I've never heard of him.
"An English prop? Well in my experience there are very few props with high IQ. It could be something in that area."
Mana Epiha, a cultural advisor working in Maori broadcasting, also responded to Marler's comments. Epiha suggested Marler was "a little bit lost" in his understanding of the Haka's purpose.
"If he doesn't like it, that is probably a good thing. That is not for people to like, it's for people to tremble in their boots," Epiha told reporters.
The cultural advisor emphasised the Haka's deep-rooted significance, stating, "It's definitely something that brings about beautiful feelings of our ancestors' warrior spirits."
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