Two months have passed since the Wallabies’ unexpected exit from the Rugby World Cup, and Eddie Jones, the former head coach of Australia, is shedding light on his future plans after his resignation last month.
The aftermath of Australia’s disastrous 40-6 defeat to Wales in the World Cup pool stage stirred speculation about Jones’s next move, particularly in connection to a rumored interview with Japan for their upcoming vacant head coach position. Despite denying the reports at the time, Jones has now opened up about his outlook in a recent interview on James Graham’s The Bye Round Podcast.
In the conversation, a visibly content Jones expressed his intention to take a step back and evaluate his options. “Given the disappointment of this job, it’s probably the first time I’ve decided I just need to sit back now,” he shared with Graham. “I’ve been basically coaching since ’96. I’m just gonna sit back, and if someone offers me a job, I’ll have to make sure it’s the right job, and if it is, then I’ll give it a go.”
Jones, 63, emphasized his preference for international coaching over club commitments. “I’d like to keep coaching internationally; I don’t think I want to go back and coach club,” he stated. In the absence of a coaching opportunity, he mentioned his longstanding consulting role with Suntory in Japan, expressing his willingness to contribute to the team.
However, one coaching venture that seems off the table is the British and Irish Lions. Despite his successful stint with England and the upcoming Lions tour to Australia in 2025, Jones clarified that he has “no time” for coaching other home unions. “I like the English, I liked coaching the English (but) I’ve got no time for the rest of them,” he affirmed.
As Eddie Jones takes a momentary hiatus from the coaching arena, rugby enthusiasts worldwide await the next chapter in the seasoned coach’s illustrious career, eager to see where his expertise will be wielded next.