Marler announced on Sunday that he had retired from Test rugby after winning 95 caps between 2012 and 2024. Discussing life in the England camp without Marler, Cole noted the place was “quieter”, joking: “I talk to one less person, so I talk to no one.” George Ford is now filling the Marler-shaped void as Cole’s new room-mate.

England prop Joe Marler has retired from international rugby after 95 tests since 2012. The 34-year-old Marler was in the squad for the autumn series but left England’s camp on Monday for personal reasons.

England prop Joe Marler announced his retirement from international rugby on Sunday and this time the 34-year-old said he will stay retired for good having done the same in 2018, only to reverse his decision to play in the World Cup a year later.