Joe Marler has been appointed to lead discussions with the Rugby Football Union (RFU) and Premiership clubs to improve the welfare of England rugby players, a role he takes on as part of his new position as performance director for Team England Rugby (TER). This organization was formed by England players to address concerns that arose after the breakaway from the Rugby Players’ Association. Marler, who retired from international rugby in November after ending his England career during the autumn internationals, is focusing on player welfare and ensuring that players are not overburdened by excessive game time.
A key issue Marler will address is the maximum game-time limits set for players, which were reduced to 30 match involvements this season as part of the Professional Game Partnership. Marler expressed concerns that many England players are likely to exceed this limit, particularly with the British & Irish Lions tour of Australia this summer. As a result, many players will require exemptions to continue playing, and it will be Marler’s responsibility to negotiate these exemptions and ensure that players receive adequate rest during the season.
Marler’s main goal is to relieve the pressure on players by acting as an intermediary between them and the directors of rugby (DoRs) at their clubs. He noted that many players, especially younger ones, might be too intimidated to approach their DoRs to discuss their welfare, fearing judgment or being told to simply “get on with it.” Marler’s role is designed to ensure that players feel supported and that their concerns are taken seriously. He has already initiated conversations with Premiership clubs, including discussing the game-time management of players like Nick Isiekwe with Saracens’ director of rugby, Mark McCall.
Marler emphasized that England players had not been adequately looked after in the past, which led to the creation of TER as a means to take control of their representation and ensure their well-being. He and other players in TER have voiced their concerns to the RFU about the demands placed on players, especially those who are consistently selected for both international duty and key club competitions like the Premiership and European tournaments. These players often face an intense schedule, and Marler has suggested that adjustments, such as giving players a longer rest period by reducing their involvement in pre-season or early-season club matches, could help manage workloads more effectively.
In addition to negotiating game-time exemptions, Marler’s role also involves facilitating communication between players, clubs, and the RFU to ensure that decisions regarding player welfare are made in the best interest of the players. He pointed out that many players are reluctant to speak up about their needs due to the pressure of being seen as weak or soft, which can lead to a lack of proper care. By building stronger relationships with DoRs, Marler aims to create an environment where players feel empowered to prioritize their health and well-being without fear of repercussions.
Marler’s appointment is seen as a significant step in addressing the concerns raised by players about their workloads and ensuring that their voices are heard in decisions that affect their careers and health. With a growing focus on player welfare in rugby, Marler’s leadership in these discussions will be crucial in shaping the future of England rugby, both on and off the field.
