Eddie Jones is concerned that his close relationship with Japan’s rugby president Masato Tsuchida could hinder his chances of returning to the country as head coach. He has also ruled out returning to Australia to coach the British and Irish Lions in 2025. In an interview with the Bye Round Podcast, Jones revealed that his longstanding association with Tsuchida might be a stumbling block in his pursuit of the Japan head coaching role.
He expressed a willingness to wait and see what opportunities come his way, emphasizing the need to choose the right job if and when it presents itself. Jones also stated that he is not in a rush to secure a new coaching role, given his disappointment with the Wallabies job. He has ruled out coaching club teams, expressing a preference for coaching internationally instead.
In terms of potential coaching opportunities, former All Blacks coaches Ian Foster and Joe Schmidt are reportedly on the shortlist to coach Montpellier in France’s Top 14 competition. This follows the sacking of the club’s head coach and his assistant.
On a different note, Michael Hooper disclosed that former All Blacks star Sonny Bill Williams advised him against making a run at sevens. Hooper is aiming to represent Australia at the Paris Olympics and has started training with the squad. He emphasized the appeal of playing a different game and participating in the Olympics.
Meanwhile, former England international Ugo Monye has accused a supporter at a Premiership match of racially abusing him. The incident is being investigated by the police, and Exeter Chiefs have issued an apology, confirming that the incident was captured on CCTV.
On a somber note, South African World Cup winner Hannes Strydom has tragically died in a car accident at the age of 58. He was part of the Springbok team that won the 1995 Rugby World Cup, and the South African Rugby Union President has described him as a hero of the local game.