Marler extends contract with Harlequins

England and Harlequins prop Joe Marler has committed his playing future to the Aviva Premiership Rugby club at the Twickenham Stoop.

Marler is one of Harlequins Academy graduates, has developed into a world class loosehead prop since becoming a senior squad member in 2010.

Confirming the news, Harlequins Director of Rugby Conor O’Shea said: “I am staggered that Joe is still only 25. He already has a wealth of experience and when he develops into the player he can be, I have no doubt he will become one of the great loosehead props in world rugby. This is a massive re-signing for us and I’m sure everyone associated with Harlequins will be delighted.”

Widely respected among his peers and opponents, Eastbourne born Marler is a powerful scrummager and a cornerstone of the Harlequins forward pack.

The one club man made his senior Harlequins debut in 2009 and has since gone on to make 131 appearances, scoring six tries. During the 2014/15 season Marler was appointed as Club captain, preceding current captain Danny Care.

The charismatic loosehead prop was part of Harlequins’ Amlin Challenge Cup and Aviva Premiership winning campaigns, scoring a pivotal try in the 2012 Premiership semi-final against Northampton Saints.

Having gained international honours at every age grade level, the prop has made 37 Test appearances for England since his 2012 debut in South Africa. The 25 year-old won his most recent cap during Rugby World Cup 2015.

Commenting on the news, Marler said: “After a tough 2014/15 season, both personally and as a team, I took some time to think about my future. It quickly dawned on me that this is exactly where I want to be; being part of a team is not just about winning.

“I’m a Quin and I love everything about the Club. I’m excited for every time I put on the famous quartered shirt and represent this team.”