England Rugby Union boss Eddie Jones could make a sensational return to his native Australia, despite Wallabies fans labelling him a ‘traitor’. Jones took over the England role in 2015, but is said to be a target for the Wallabies following the 2023 World Cup.
Then 62-year-old last coached his native country back in 2005, having held the post for four years after taking over in 2001. He then returned to international coaching in 2012, as head coach of Japan, before making the move to England after a three-year stint.
Jones recently led England to a 2-1 series win over Australia down under, having sealed the win with a 21-17 win last Saturday.
Following the three-match series Wallabies boss David Rennie is said to be under increasing pressure due to the loss of Ella-Mobbs Trophy. The sticky run of form has seen Rennie’s win percentage as coach fall below 40%, and with the World Cup in France growing ever closer, concerns in the Australian camp continue to grow.
Wallabies chiefs have reportedly reached out to Jones to take over following the 2023 event in France. Jones himself is said to be open to a return at some point in his career, and the Sydney Morning Herald reported that Rugby Australia have been after Jones for some time.
Whether a return for the England coach would be well received by fans remains to be seen. This comes after Jones was involved in an altercation with an Aussie fan on the recent tour who labelled him a ‘traitor’. A video on social media shows the fan shouting from the stands as the 62-year-old walks past on the pitch.
As Jones comes into shot, the Australian spectator shouts towards him: “You are a traitor.” The angered England boss storms over before responding: “What did you say? What did you say? Come here and say it, come here and say it!”
Following the altercation Rugby Australia issued a statement, as CEO Andy Marinos said: “The offensive remarks made by spectators in the Members' areas towards England staff were unacceptable -– and not representative of the values of rugby. Rugby prides itself on values of respect and integrity -– as seen in the players of both teams after the final whistle of a hard-fought series at the SCG on Saturday night.”
