England prop Joe Heyes has disclosed an amusing case of mistaken identity involving Princess Anne ahead of last Saturday's Six Nations encounter with Scotland at Murrayfield.
During the traditional pre-match presentation of teams before the anthems, the Princess Royal approached Mr Heyes for a chat, believing him to be his former international colleague, Joe Marler.
The confusion stemmed from Mr Marler's recent television fame as a popular finalist on the BBC's Celebrity Traitors programme last November.
Anne, who has served as patron of the Scottish Rugby Union since 1986, complimented the Leicester tighthead on being "awfully funny on TV" — a remark clearly intended for the reality show contestant.
'You’re awfully funny on TV!' Princess Anne mistakes Joe Heyes for Joe Marler before Six Nations clash
|GETTY / BBC
Mr Heyes admitted the encounter left him somewhat overwhelmed. "She thought I was Joe Marler, which was quite upsetting," he said. "She said, 'You're awfully funny on TV!'"
The prop confessed he felt unable to set the record straight in the moment.
"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!"
Despite finding the situation amusing, Mr Heyes acknowledged this was not the first time someone had noted a resemblance between the two forwards. "I've had all sorts about me looking like Joe Marler but not from a royal!"
Princess Anne greeting Joe Heyes (far left) and his teammates on Saturday
|GETTY
England's struggles at Murrayfield continued as they fell to a comprehensive 31-20 defeat, extending their winless run at the venue to six years.
Head coach Steve Borthwick has made three personnel changes for this Saturday's fixture against Ireland at Allianz Stadium in response to the loss.
Among those alterations, Northampton flanker Henry Pollock will earn his first Test start, having previously featured seven times from the bench.
The 21-year-old with distinctive peroxide hair has already established himself as a crowd favourite at Twickenham, and Mr Heyes believes his teammate possesses the qualities to excel in the number eight jersey.
Joe Marler (left) has retired from England duty after winning 95 caps for his country
| PALATEST ROYAL NEWS:
BBC Celebrity Traitors: Joe Marler was a Faithful | BBCMr Heyes offered a glowing assessment of Mr Pollock's capabilities. "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."
The prop highlighted Mr Pollock's deceptive physicality, recalling his impressive run down the left flank at Murrayfield.
"He's one hell of an athlete and has a lot of impact. He brings his personality in a physical way."
Saturday's match will also mark a significant milestone, with captain Maro Itoje earning his 100th cap to become England's ninth male centurion.
Mr Heyes described Mr Itoje as "one of the best captains that I have played under."