Eddie Jones has distanced himself from a report out of Japan that suggests he is contemplating stepping down as Wallabies coach after the Rugby World Cup, maintaining his commitment to the role.
Just months ago, during a podcast interview, Jones hinted at the possibility of not continuing as Wallabies coach beyond this year’s World Cup. However, he later clarified his remarks. Now, there are renewed speculations about his potential departure before his contract expires in 2027.
Yahoo in Japan recently released a report regarding the process to appoint a new Japan head coach to replace Jamie Joseph. While the report identified South African Frans Ludeke as a leading candidate, it also mentioned Jones as being in “negotiations” with Japanese officials to line-up a next role.
Although the report suggested that Jones might be an unlikely choice, it implied that the Wallabies coach had been in contact with Japanese officials and could consider a move following the World Cup.
A translated excerpt from the report stated, “Mr. Jones is expected to announce whether he will advance or withdraw immediately after the World Cup.”
In response to the report, Jones, through a Wallabies spokesperson, dismissed it as “bullshit and gossip.”
In June, Jones sparked discussions when he appeared on a UK podcast and stated that he wouldn’t continue as the Wallabies coach in 2024. He explained, “I’m only coaching until this World Cup. I’ve signed [until the end of 2027], but as I’ve made the mistake before, I’ve stayed too long. So, if we win the World Cup, it will be time to go. If we lose the World Cup, it will be time to go.”
Jones was given the opportunity to clarify his comments a few days later but chose not to. Instead, he reached out to clarify his stance, saying, “I am here for five years, but my sole focus is on this Rugby World Cup, so I don’t think beyond that.”
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Nigel Owens reveals the top five Rugby World Cup captains he refereed
Nigel Owens has disclosed his top five captains he’s officiated and made a surprising selection as his top pick.
The well-respected referee shared his choices with Wales Online, prefacing his selections by stating that he wouldn’t include any Welsh players on his list since he hasn’t officiated any international matches involving them.
With that in mind, here are my top Test skippers, excluding Welshmen.
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NIGEL OWENS: MY TOP 5 CAPTAINS
#5. Chris Robshaw (England)
Owens said: Some people will be surprised at this one to start off. His misfortune was perhaps to be leading England during a difficult time, but he always gave everything for the cause, encouraging others to follow suit, and he was a nice guy off the pitch.”
