England replace Lancaster with Eddie Jones

 

The RFU have announced that Australian Eddie Jones will replace Stuart Lancaster as the new England head coach.

The 55 year old, who becomes England’s first foreign coach, brings a wealth of international experience to the position as England look to progress from their disappointing World Cup campaign that saw them exit the competition in the group stages.

One of the major talking points is with regards to a domestic league team selection, something Lancaster was widely critiqued for.

“I want players who want to play for England,” he said. “If you want to play for England you have to be in the Premiership. I am happy with that.”

Jones arrives following a brief spell with South African side, the Stormers, who he took charge of in September following an impressive World Cup display with Japan.

In addition to a strong World Cup with Japan, Jones was also part of South Africa’s 2007 winning side, and was at the helm of the Australian side that was beaten by England in the 2003 World Cup final.

In regards to his captaincy, Jones will speak to Chris Robshaw, but a potential replacement could yet be made.

Jones’s first game in charge of England will be against Scotland at Murrayfield on 6 February in a Six Nation’s opener.

“I hope to build a new team that will reflect the talent that exists within the English game. I believe the future is bright for England,” Jones said.

“I’m now looking forward to working with the RFU and the players to move beyond the disappointment England suffered at the World Cup.”

Jones added; “The opportunity to take the reins in, possibly, the world’s most high-profile international rugby job doesn’t come along every day, and I feel fortunate to be given the opportunity.”

RFU chief executive Ian Ritchie said: “Eddie is a world-class coach, with extensive experience at the highest level with Australia, South Africa and Japan.

“We believe that the appointment, which was unanimously approved by the RFU board, is the right one to bring England success in the short, medium and long term.”