Fin Baxter, who was Marler’s understudy for Harlequins and the national team, said: “It is quite cool to see rugby players transitioning into mainstream TV shows.”
As performance director for Team England Rugby, a group that represents players’ interests, Marler spent time with the squad at their Surrey base during the week.
The 35-year-old, whose 15-year professional rugby career ended in 2024, has not revealed to the squad where he finishes in the final, which will be aired on BBC One on Thursday.
Baxter said: “I don’t think he has told anyone.
“He told former player Danny Care he has gone quite far.
“It is brilliant to see him just being himself.”