With South African teams set to debut in the Champions and Challenge cups this week, England prop Joe Marler has raised an eyebrow at playing a European competition in the Republic.

While praising the performance of Springbok anchor Wilco Louw in Harlequins’ English Premiership win over Bath last week, Marler questioned the Londoners’ trip to Durban for a clash against the Sharks on Saturday.

Speaking during an entertaining post-match interview on Friday, the 83-Test-capped loosehead even referred to the Durbanites as the “Natal Sharks”.

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@btsport Joe Marler really wants that semi! ?? Another classic interview with the Harlequins star. — #Harlequins #JoeMarler #GallagherPrem #PremRugby #Rugby #England ♬ original sound – btsport

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Photo: EPA/Franck Robichon