There's renewed debate about the haka's purpose after Joe Marler suggested it should be banned.

The English prop labelled it 'ridiculous' in a post on social media ahead of this week's rugby test at Twickenham.

Former All Blacks head coach Laurie Mains says the haka is a long-standing rugby tradition within the team - and Marler wouldn't understand its significance. 

"Who would want to take any offence at what Joe Marler says? After all, he's a front-row prop and he wouldn't have a clue where the haka stands in New Zealand rugby."

LISTEN ABOVE

There's renewed debate about the haka's purpose after Joe Marler suggested it should be banned.
The English prop labelled it 'ridiculous' in a post on social media ahead of this week's rugby test at Twickenham.
Former All Blacks head coach Laurie Mains says the haka is a long-standing rugby tradition within the team - and Marler wouldn't understand its significance.&nbsp;
"Who would want to take any offence at what Joe Marler says? After all, he's a front-row prop and he wouldn't have a clue where the haka stands in New Zealand rugby."
LISTEN ABOVE

With a straight down the middle approach, Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive on Newstalk ZB delivers the very latest news and views to New Zealanders as they wrap up their day.

Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

Laurie Mains: Former All Blacks head coach on Joe Marler's calls for the All Blacks to bin the haka

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/ded4b648-ebf7-4b2f-89fe-b219005d6460/transcript

Advertisement