BBC Rugby Union News: Marler Set to Earn 94th Cap as England Prepare to Face New Zealand
Veteran prop Joe Marler is poised to earn his 94th cap for England as they take on New Zealand in Dunedin this Saturday. The 33-year-old Harlequins player will start at loosehead, inching closer to the coveted century of international appearances.
England head coach Steve Borthwick praised the invaluable experience and leadership that Marler and fellow veteran Dan Cole bring to the squad. “Joe and Dan are exceptional players and are also incredibly influential on the players around them,” said Borthwick. “The significance of their leadership in this squad is enormous.”
The coaches have tasked the experienced duo with specific roles to help develop the younger players into “Test match animals.” Borthwick explained that Marler and Cole’s wealth of knowledge, having played a combined 113 Tests, allows them to “see things happening faster” and impart their wisdom to the next generation.
While Marler is set to earn his 94th cap, another Harlequins prop, the 22-year-old Fin Baxter, is poised to make his international debut, earning a spot on the bench. Borthwick expressed confidence in Baxter’s set-piece abilities, stating that the young player has “shown his ability to scrum against some very big packs in European rugby.”
Additionally, Northampton wing Ollie Sleightholme is also set to make his first appearance for England this weekend. Borthwick is eager to see how these young talents will perform, believing they will be “big parts of the England team for years to come.”
“Joe and Dan are exceptional players and are also incredibly influential on the players around them. The significance of their leadership in this squad is enormous.”
With the experienced heads of Marler and Cole guiding the way, England will look to make their mark against the formidable All Blacks in Dunedin.
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