Joe Marler pulls out of Wales match and Australia tour

Joe Marler has pulled out of England's next week's match against Wales and the three-Test tour of Australia.

The Harlequins forward has so far had a torrid start to the year after getting banned for two games for making inappropriate comments against Wales prop Samson Lee during their Six Nations match at Twickenham.

He was also involved in a kicking incident involving Grenoble hooker Arnaud Héguy during the European Challenge Cup semi-final for which he was handed another two-week ban.

Marler has requested head coach Eddie Jones for "a short rest" from the game. He had recently revealed of seeing a sports psychologist to address his "lack of professional control".

Jones described this development as a "big loss" for his side ahead of the crucial tour down-under. He also expressed his support to Marler for the tough decision he has taken.

"Joe played brilliantly during the RBS 6 Nations and he will be a big loss in Australia.

"Joe knows better than anyone what it takes to be part of a winning international team and he obviously doesn't feel like he's quite there at the moment. We fully support Joe's difficult decision and admire his honesty."

Jones also exhibited confidence in Marler to make a comeback to the side after using his time off wisely.

"He's a young man with a very bright future. There's no doubt in my mind he'll use this time wisely and come back feeling refreshed and ready to be part of England again."

Jones is presently conducting a boot camp at Brighton where 26 players are preparing for the upcoming mid-summer internationals.

Marler spoke to Jones about his decision of not being 100 percent to represent England at the moment. He also wished his team-mates for an exciting and challenging series against the Wallabies.

"It has been a very enjoyable but sometimes difficult season.

"After speaking to Eddie in Brighton I have decided that the best thing for me is to take a rest and not go to Australia. Whenever you play for England you have to be 100 per cent and unfortunately I'm not in that place at the moment.

"It's not a decision I've come to lightly, but I feel I would be letting my team-mates and my country down if I were to tour.

"I think a short rest will really help me recharge my batteries so I can start next season with the energy and focus that's needed to perform at the highest level.

"I wish my team-mates the very best in Australia in what is a hugely exciting and challenging series for England."