England rugby international Joe Heyes has shared a humorous royal anecdote, revealing that the Princess Royal mistook him for Celebrity Traitors star Joe Marler during a pre-match greeting at Murrayfield. The incident occurred as Anne, in her role as patron of the Scottish Rugby Union, met players ahead of Saturday's Guinness Six Nations clash between England and Scotland.
A Starstruck Moment with Royalty
Heyes, England's tighthead prop, described himself as "starstruck" when Princess Anne stopped to chat during the customary team presentation before the anthems. The Princess, who has served as patron of the Scottish Rugby Union since 1986, approached Heyes thinking he was his former international teammate Joe Marler, who gained fame as a popular finalist in the BBC's hit reality game show Celebrity Traitors last November.
"She thought I was Joe Marler, which was... quite upsetting," Heyes confessed. "She said 'You're awfully funny on TV!' It was a very cool experience. I do like it when you get to meet the patron of whatever union you're playing against."
Too Starstruck to Correct the Royal Mistake
The Leicester front row player admitted he didn't correct the Princess's mistaken identity. "I didn't correct her because I was a bit starstruck to start with. Who am I to correct her? I didn't really know what to say! I almost went with it!"
Heyes added that while he's frequently been told he resembles Marler, this royal comparison was particularly memorable. "I've had all sorts about me looking like Joe Marler – but not from a royal!"
England's Murrayfield Struggles Continue
The amusing royal encounter came before England suffered another disappointing result at Murrayfield, losing 31-20 to continue their quest for a first victory at the ground since 2020. The defeat prompted head coach Steve Borthwick to make three personnel changes for England's upcoming clash with Ireland at Allianz Stadium.
Among the changes is Henry Pollock receiving his first Test start after seven appearances as a replacement. The 21-year-old peroxide Northampton flanker has become a fan favourite at Twickenham despite his rookie status.
Heyes Backs Young Talent Pollock
Heyes expressed strong confidence in Pollock's abilities as England's number eight. "Henry's a very confident, very skilful and very ambitious player," the Leicester front row said. "He provides a huge amount of energy to the team. He's going to go far."
"I remember his run down the left wing at Murrayfield. For someone who you may look at and think does not look hugely powerful – he is. He's one hell of an athlete and has a lot of impact. He has a lot of energy and he's still young. He brings his personality in a physical way, which is a good thing to see."
Heyes emphasized that Pollock delivers both personality and performance. "You don't want someone who is full of personality but who does not provide on the pitch. He gives both. He's a key player in our squad."
Maro Itoje Reaches Century Milestone
The article also highlights England captain Maro Itoje's upcoming achievement of winning his 100th cap on Saturday, making him the nation's ninth men's player to reach this significant landmark.
Heyes praised Itoje's leadership qualities, saying, "You know Maro is on your team – he's talking to you at mauls, scrums, nominating and talking around the pitch. He's a genuinely brilliant leader by words – he is incredibly articulate – but also by his actions. He drives a lot of standards. He is one of the best captains that I have played under."
The royal mix-up adds a lighthearted moment to England's Six Nations campaign, blending celebrity culture with international rugby as the team prepares for their next challenge against Ireland.
