Head coach Eddie Jones, a seasoned figure in the rugby world, has made his intentions clear – he’s staying with the Australian team. Despite the Wallabies’ unexpected early exit from the World Cup following losses to Fiji and Wales, Jones remains resolute in his commitment to the team Down Under. Moreover, he squashed any rumors linking him to a return as the Japan coach.
Jones, who led Australia to the 2003 World Cup final during his first stint as head coach, began his second spell in charge in January and has a contract in place until 2027. “I’m staying,” he declared with conviction, reaffirming his dedication to Australian rugby.
Reflecting on his commitment, Jones stated, “I’ve always been committed to Australian rugby. I want to leave it in a better place, and that’s still the job.” His loyalty to the sport and the team is palpable, a refreshing sentiment in a world where coaching changes are often frequent.
However, Jones also acknowledged the realities of coaching in the world of sports, saying, “It’s not absolutely my decision. We play in a game where the coach doesn’t decide how long they stay.” This acknowledgment of the ever-changing nature of coaching demonstrates his practical approach to the sport.
Jones, who previously coached Australia from 2001 to 2005 and had a stint with England, expressed his bafflement regarding reports that he was being considered for the Japan coaching role. He asserted, “I haven’t spoken to anyone” and brushed off the idea with a tinge of humor, emphasizing his focus on the Australian team.
Australian rugby has initiated an independent review of the team’s performance at the World Cup, but Jones is steadfast in his belief that he made the right choice by selecting a young side. He believes this decision will benefit Australia’s prospects, especially as they prepare for a home World Cup in 2027.
“I went to the World Cup, came in [with] a short period of time, had to make a decision on the team, made a decision we needed to go with youth,” Jones explained. While the World Cup results were not as anticipated, he is optimistic about the team’s future, stating, “I think I’ve left the Australian team in a great position to go on to 2027.”
Despite their early exit from the World Cup, Australia managed victories against Georgia and Portugal, displaying flashes of their potential. Jones, however, candidly admitted, “We just weren’t good enough” and recognized that they are not currently at the level of the World Cup quarter-finalists. Nevertheless, his vision for the future is clear, and he believes Australia can elevate their game to compete at the highest level by 2027.
In a world of sports where loyalty often seems fleeting, Eddie Jones’ commitment to Australian rugby is not only commendable but also a testament to his dedication and belief in the team’s potential. His second stint with the Wallabies is far from over, and the journey to 2027 promises to be an exciting one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Eddie Jones’ Commitment
1. Why is Eddie Jones committed to Australia despite their early exit from the World Cup?
Eddie Jones is committed to Australia because he has always been dedicated to Australian rugby. He wants to leave the team in a better place, and he sees it as his responsibility to fulfill this commitment.
2. Is Eddie Jones considering a return as Japan’s coach?
No, Eddie Jones has categorically denied any speculation linking him to a return as Japan’s coach. He made it clear that he hasn’t spoken to anyone regarding this matter.
3. What does Eddie Jones think about the independent review of Australia’s team performance at the World Cup?
Eddie Jones stands by his decision to select a young team and believes it will benefit Australia in the long term, especially with the prospect of a home World Cup in 2027. He considers his approach to be a strategic move for the team’s future.
4. What were the results of Australia at the World Cup?
Australia had an unexpected early exit from the World Cup after losing to Fiji and Wales. Despite this, they managed to secure victories against Georgia and Portugal.
5. What does Eddie Jones think about Australia’s current level of play?
Eddie Jones candidly admitted that Australia wasn’t at the level of the World Cup quarter-finalists. However, he is optimistic and believes that by 2027, the team can compete at a higher level on the world stage.
More about Eddie Jones’ Commitment
- [Eddie Jones: Australia coach says ‘I’m staying’ and denies link with Japan](Insert URL)
- [Eddie Jones – Wikipedia](Insert URL)
- [Rugby World Cup](Insert URL)
- [Australian Rugby](Insert URL)
- [Japan Rugby](Insert URL)
2 comments
jones stayin with australia! no japan move? cool!
aussies out of WC, young team strategy, Jones belief in future 2027? optimistic!