The RFU’s stunning decision to axe super coach Eddie Jones nine months out from next year’s World Cup may add more drama to the “fascinating” international coaching merry-go-round.
While England only managed to win five Test matches this year under Jones, the rugby guru will undoubtedly go down in history as one of the greatest coaches of all-time.
But that’s not to say that his time as an international rugby union coach is over.
Australian-born Jones has been successful everywhere he’s gone in international rugby, which includes World Cup final appearances as a head coach with both the Wallabies and England.
But the 62-year-old etched his name into rugby immortality during the 2015 World Cup, as he led Japan to a brave upset win over the Springboks in Brighton.
While there is plenty of speculation regarding Jones’ future – having been linked with a potential move to the United States – it seems he may be set for a return to Australian shores.
According to Tom Decent from The Sydney Morning Herald, Rugby Australia “are serious about trying to entice Eddie Jones” to return the Wallabies setup in some capacity.
Decent also believes that under fire coach Dave Rennie is “resigned to the fact” that he may not receive a contact extension after next year’s World Cup.
“Dave Rennie has spoken about hoping to receive a contract extension post the World Cup. I think he’s possibly resigned to the fact that won’t be happening,” Decent said on The Platform.
“He’s, to our understanding, looking at potential options elsewhere. Rugby Australia haven’t moved on that or given any clarity as to whether they would give Reenie an extension beyond 2023.
“Dave Rennie hasn’t spoken publicly since all the Eddie Jones has happened… it would be intriguing to see his views on this.”
The wounded Wallabies had a disastrous campaign this year in terms of results, with inconsistent team selections and poor discipline costing the men in gold in thrilling Tests.
Australia stated their season with a hard-fought win over Jones’ England, before losing six of their next eight Test matches.
Their end-of-season tour wasn’t much better, losing three of their five matches by three points or less – and they would’ve lost four had it not been for a staggering Welsh collapse in Cardiff.
But it’s not all doom and gloom for the men in gold, who showed plenty of fight and toughness throughout an injury-ravaged campaign.
