Joe Marler returns to England squad for the 2025 Six Nations

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Find your local Greene King and settle in for the 2025 Six Nations!

The former prop has stepped into the role of Player Welfare Manager, ensuring England’s stars are looked after on and off the pitch.

From managing match workloads to prioritising mental health, Marler’s focus is all about keeping the squad in peak condition.

Speaking on the 

For The Love of Rugby podcast, the 34-year-old revealed the challenges—and surprising moments—of his job so far. He shared how he’s become a bridge between younger players and their intimidating Directors of Rugby.

“They’d never speak to the DoRs without fearing they’d be judged as soft,” Joe Marler explained. Now, he’s stepping in to have those tough conversations.

On his approach to player welfare, Joe Marler said, “It’s about making sure the players are looked after so they can perform and have longevity. Who better to understand how hard it is to be an England rugby player, and the toll it takes, than the boys who’ve been there?”

One of Marler’s standout experiences so far? Sparring verbally with Saracens boss Mark McCall. The topic: Nick Isiekwe’s rest period after the autumn internationals.

“That was hilarious,” Marler said. “From scrapping on the field to hashing out rest terms on the phone—it’s surreal. McCall couldn’t believe he was talking to a clown like me, now carrying the title of Performance Director of England Rugby. Madness!”

From his wild antics on the field to becoming a welfare champion off it, Marler’s journey has been nothing short of unpredictable. But one thing’s for sure—England’s players are in capable (and quirky) hands.

Together since their teens, Johnny Sexton and his wife Laura are one of rugby’s wealthiest couples. Known for their close-knit family, with three children often seen pitchside, the Sextons met at Rathgar Tennis Club and tied the knot in 2013. From Dublin’s Saint Mary’s College to University College Dublin, Johnny and Laura have been through it all. Their story, filled with love and commitment, has captivated fans just as much as Johnny’s rugby career.

With an empire worth an estimated £10 million, Siya and Rachel Kolisi were not just a power couple but partners in philanthropy.

Known for their foundation and work in communities, the couple planned to keep collaborating on their projects, even as they transition to a new chapter. Siya recently rejoined the Sharks in South Africa after a stint with French side Racing, but despite their split, Rachel remains the "rock" Siya has always called her.

Though the Kolisis’ marriage may be over, their legacy as one of South Africa’s most-loved couples will continue to inspire fans across the globe.

Mike Tindall is known not just for his rugby prowess but for his royal connections. As the husband of Zara Phillips, the granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth II, Tindall has become a prominent figure in British media.

Nicknamed “The Fridge” due to his imposing physique, Tindall was a stalwart on the rugby field, famously breaking his nose at least eight times over the course of his career.

Since retiring from the sport, he’s made a name for himself in the entertainment world, appearing on popular reality shows such as I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here, Bear Grylls: Mission Survive, The Jump, Shark Cage, Celebrity Poker Club, and All-Star Poker Challenge

Despite his success in sports and entertainment, Tindall’s wealth has been largely bolstered by his royal ties, with his net worth estimated at £20 million, according to British media.

Jonny Wilkinson is a legendary figure in English rugby, with a career spanning 12 seasons at Newcastle Falcons before his move to French club Toulon in 2009. Wilkinson cemented his place in history by leading England to victory in the 2003 Rugby World Cup, becoming a national hero in the process.

In his personal life, Wilkinson has kept a lower profile. He married his long-time girlfriend, Shelley Jenkins, in a private ceremony on the French Riviera in October 2013. The couple now has a son, reportedly named James, and maintain a relatively private family life. Wilkinson's net worth stands at £22 million, making him one of rugby's wealthiest figures.

Sonny Bill Williams is a sporting icon from New Zealand, famed not only for his rugby achievements but also for his ventures into boxing. Known for his versatility, Williams has excelled in both rugby union and rugby league, playing as a centre and second-rower, respectively. Additionally, his brief yet successful stint in professional boxing saw him win nine out of 10 heavyweight bouts.

In 2013, Williams married Alana Raffie after a whirlwind four-week romance, following Islamic traditions despite admitting that they were not in love at the time. Their union has since become one of the most talked-about in sports. With a combination of earnings from rugby, boxing, and endorsements, the couple's net worth is reported to be around £20 million.