Former England rugby head coach Eddie Jones is delighted to accept the appointment. After a topsy-turvy few years with the Australian national team, he is happy and excited for this new opportunity. At 65 years young, he just stepped down from his duties with the Wallabies. This decision came only ten months into a five-year contract after the team’s poor showing at the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France. Under his leadership, Australia had its worst-ever World Cup performance, departing the tournament in the group stage.
Jones’ move to Japan’s rugby scene was a quick one. He denied speculation that he had in fact interviewed for the ARU head coaching job prior to his departure from the Wallabies. Immediately after his resignation, he repeated the challenge by becoming head coach of Japan. Emotional, this began an adventurous and invigorating new chapter in his coaching career.
A Challenging Departure
Jones’ departure from Australian rugby was shrouded in allegations and bitter disappointment. Fans were dreaming big with the Wallabies ahead of the World Cup. The team’s shortcomings resulted in harsh criticism and review of Jones’ tactics. Yet the announcement of his resignation came as a surprise to no one, the writing on the wall after Australia’s historic and dismal exit.
Looking back on his departure, Jones still insists that he’s beyond that. He stated that he carries “no wounds” from his time with the Wallabies and has found a sense of peace in his new position. “I can sit quietly at night and be comfortable with myself,” he remarked, indicating a sense of personal closure.
Debut with Japan
A dramatic finish played in front of an astounding crowd of 40,000 opened Eddie Jones debut as Japan’s head coach at Coogee Oval, Sydney. His under-23 team played Randwick in a beauty. The final result was a close loss, with Randwick defeating Japan 36-31. Jones has every reason to remain wildly confident about his future with the new Japanese club, even after the defeat. He’s committed to creating a championship-caliber roster.
His vast experience at the highest level with the Wallabies will surely influence his style of coaching during the World Cup in Japan. Jones’ goal will be to create a winning mentality throughout the squad, whilst tapping into the strengths of Japanese rugby culture.
Looking Ahead
As he starts down this exciting new career path, Jones responds that the key is to keep growing and developing as a coach. He knows there are tough times ahead, but he is determined to keep Japan’s rugby dream alive. And with his eye firmly focused on the future, he seeks to make the team increasingly competitive on the world stage.
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