Eddie Jones would be announced as Japan’s new coach six weeks after leaving the Wallabies
- Jones is appointed head coach of Japan
- Reports indicate that news will become public soon
- Jones initially denied links to a coaching role
Just six weeks after his dramatic departure from the Wallabies, Eddie Jones is set to be named Japan’s new head coach, according to several Japanese media outlets.
Jones quit as Australia coach in October after a disastrous nine-month spell in charge of his country, which saw the Wallabies dumped at the earliest possible stage of the Rugby World Cup as questions about his loyalty mounted .
The 63-year-old chose a young squad and ignored the likes of Michael Hooper, Quade Cooper and Bernard Foley, but their preparations were turned upside down when reports emerged of a secret meeting with the Japanese federation.
He initially denied a meeting took place, but has since openly expressed his interest in the vacancy following his departure from Australia.
According to Japanese media and The Sydney Morning HeraldJones beat South African Frans Ludeke for the top position on Thursday after a second interview.
According to reports, Jones will be named head coach of Japan
Jones initially denied meeting Japan for the top job
Jones, who is half Japanese, previously coached the Brave Blossoms from 2012 to 2015.
His appointment to the new position is expected to be confirmed at the board meeting on December 13.
In another development, former Wallabies manager Chris Webb is also reportedly joining Jones at the JFRU, having recently flown to Japan.
Webb was met at the airport by the Japanese press Sponichi reporting that Webb had stated: ‘Nothing had been decided yet’.
“On the 8th, it was revealed that Eddie Jones (63), who served in the same position from 2012 to 2015, has been confirmed to return as the next Head Coach (HC) of the Japan National Rugby Team,” Sponichi’s website said. .
“If he is approved by the Board of Directors on the 13th, he will be officially appointed for the first time in eight years,” Sponichi reported.
“In terms of selecting the next head coach, Japan Association president Masato Tsuchida, who has a close relationship with Jones, led the return and made a secret offer to Jones, who was Australia’s coach this spring.
‘An open call was held in July, with League 1 Division 1 head coach Fran Rudike nominating Tokyo Bay and others. The final interviews with the two finalists were held in Tokyo on the 7th.
Jones had a disastrous nine-month spell as leader of his country
Jones coached the Brave Blossoms from 2012 to 2015
“As originally planned, Mr. Jones was selected.”
Rugby Australia has since ousted Hamish McLennan as chairman after a torrid 2023, with Daniel Herbert taking over.
Jones’ doomed appointment following the sacking of Dave Rennie in January was seen as a captain’s pick, although McLennan claimed the move was backed by the board.