Struggling with five losses in their last six games, England’s rugby woes are far from over. But if you ask Australia’s head coach Eddie Jones, the problem doesn’t rest with the coaching staff; rather, it’s the Rugby Football Union (RFU) that should shoulder the blame.
Last week, England suffered a historic loss to Fiji, marking their third defeat in just four matches leading up to the World Cup in France. While current head coach Steve Borthwick is enduring his share of finger-pointing, Jones, his predecessor, argues the fault lies elsewhere.
In a candid interview with BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Jones stated, “People are quick to point the finger at the head coach. But the real issue is that the RFU hasn’t been cranking out top-notch players for the past five years.”
He emphasized the importance of developing quality players and criticized the talent pipeline overseen by the RFU. “The problem isn’t the coach; it’s the system. We need to ask why talent isn’t emerging and why the development programs aren’t delivering as they should. That’s on the RFU.”
Since taking the reins after Jones was let go last December, Borthwick has managed to secure only three victories in nine possible games. Meanwhile, Jones had his own share of difficulties with a paltry five wins in 12 Tests in 2022.
Despite the current slump, World Cup champion Jason Robinson remains optimistic about England’s chances, drawing parallels to the 2007 team. However, fellow World Cup winner and Sport News Center analyst Matt Dawson counters that the English side “stands no chance” of lifting the trophy this year.
Jones weighed in on England’s tricky situation by saying, “Steve Borthwick has his work cut out for him. He’s dealing with a team that’s long in the tooth while trying to integrate fresh talent, like Freddie Steward, who’s doing great, and Marcus Smith, who’s still finding his groove.”
England’s preparation for the World Cup has been further marred by disciplinary issues. Captain Owen Farrell and Billy Vunipola, the squad’s only specialized number eight, are facing suspensions for high tackles, rendering them unavailable for the World Cup opener against Argentina on September 9.
Jones, however, defended the two, stating, “Both Billy and Owen are passionate about the game and their country. Sometimes in the heat of the moment, errors in judgement happen, leading to consequences.”
Australia’s World Cup Outlook: ‘Fantastic,’ Says Jones
It’s not just England facing hardships; Australia is also entering the World Cup with a dismal record, having lost all five matches since Jones took charge in January. Yet, Jones remains buoyant about Australia’s prospects, terming them “fantastic.”
“Everyone’s writing us off, and that’s perfect,” Jones declared. “Many teams in the World Cup are peaking late in their players’ careers. Ireland, New Zealand, and South Africa are all facing the same issue. But we have room to grow quickly. We’ve got hard work and a sprinkle of luck on our side, so who knows where we can go.”
In other news, innovative folks are turning office windows into solar energy generators, and The Killers rocked the BBC with a sizzling compilation of live performances, festival gigs, and archived interviews.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Eddie Jones on England’s rugby slump
Who is blaming the RFU for England’s poor rugby performance?
Australia’s head coach Eddie Jones is blaming the Rugby Football Union (RFU) for England’s recent spate of losses. He contends that the RFU is not producing enough quality players, thus leading to the team’s poor form.
What is Eddie Jones’ history with England Rugby?
Eddie Jones was the former head coach of England’s rugby team. He was sacked in December after a year of unsatisfactory results, including only five wins from 12 Tests in 2022.
Who is the current head coach of England’s rugby team?
The current head coach for England’s rugby team is Steve Borthwick. He took over the role after Eddie Jones was let go in December. Borthwick has won only three of nine possible games since taking charge.
What does Eddie Jones think about Australia’s chances in the World Cup?
Despite Australia’s own poor form under his leadership, losing all five matches since his appointment in January, Eddie Jones is optimistic about their chances in the upcoming World Cup. He believes the team can grow quickly and considers their situation to be “fantastic.”
Who else has spoken about England’s chances in the World Cup?
World Cup winner Jason Robinson is optimistic, believing that England could emulate the 2007 side and reach the final. On the flip side, Sport News Center pundit and another World Cup winner, Matt Dawson, believes England “do not have a prayer” of winning.
Are there any disciplinary issues affecting England’s World Cup chances?
Yes, England’s Captain Owen Farrell and Billy Vunipola are facing suspensions for high tackles, making them unavailable for the World Cup opener against Argentina on September 9.
What does Eddie Jones think about the suspended players?
Eddie Jones defends both Owen Farrell and Billy Vunipola, stating that they are passionate about the game and their country. He believes that their high tackles were errors in judgment that happened in the heat of the moment, leading to unfortunate consequences.
What are some other headlines in the news?
In unrelated news, innovative approaches are being taken to turn office windows into solar energy generators. Additionally, The Killers performed a mix of live and archived sets for the BBC.
More about Eddie Jones on England’s rugby slump
- BBC Radio 4’s Today programme Interview with Eddie Jones
- World Rugby Rankings
- World Cup 2023 Official Site
- Disciplinary Issues in Rugby
- Steve Borthwick’s Coaching Record
- Australia Rugby Team’s Recent Performance
- The Killers’ BBC Performances
- Innovative Solar Energy Solutions
8 comments
Off-topic but The Killers on BBC? Sign me up! Love their stuff. What’s that got to do with Rugby tho? lol
First time reading bout rugby. Interesting stuff. Didn’t know coaches throw other organizations under the bus like that.
Matt Dawson’s right, no chance for England this year. Even if Robinson’s optimistic, let’s not kid ourselves. The cup’s going elsewhere this year.
Eddie’s confident ’bout Australia’s chances? Now that’s what I wanna hear mate! But we gotta step up the game for real.
Why’s everyone piling on the coach? Players gotta play and if they ain’t good, how’s that the coach’s fault? Makes sense what Eddie’s saying.
Woah, Eddie Jones throwing shade at the RFU is like next level drama. But tbh, maybe he’s onto something? The stats don’t lie, England’s game has been meh.
Honestly, Steve Borthwick’s not had enough time to prove himself. Three outta nine ain’t good but hey, Rome wasn’t built in a day, right?
Defending Farrell and Vunipola? c’mon Eddie. Sometimes ya gotta call a spade a spade. Those tackles were dangerous, full stop.