VIDEO: Why Springbok is Eddie's G.O.A.T
02/15/2025 10:45 AM
WATCH as former England head coach Eddie Jones revealed his pick for the best player he has ever coached.
Jones is one of the most talked about coaches in rugby and with good reason.
Not one to shy away from the heat, Jones is renowned for his incredible coaching career and entertaining interviews.
Jones coached the Brumbies to a Super 12 title (2001), Australia to the 2003 World Cup Final, and famously guided Japan to a historic win over South Africa during the 2015 World Cup.
He was also a technical advisor for the Springboks during their successful 2007 World Cup campaign.
In recent years, the Australian coached England between 2015 and 2022. He led them to multiple Six Nations titles and the 2019 World Cup Final.
With this extensive coaching pedigree, the 65-year-old has mentored some of the most talented athletes and in a recent interview with Jim Hamilton, he revealed who is his ultimate standout.
When asked by the Big Jim Show, hosted by Scotland lock Jim Hamilton, who are the three best players he ever coached, Jones handed the No.1 spot to the Springbok scrumhalf Fourie du Preez, followed by Wallabies greats Stephen Larkham and George Smith.
"No.1 is Fourie du Preez. He saw the games through rucks before everyone else.
"An incredible player," Jones said.
Du Preez was a vital cog in the Boks' 2007 World Cup success, playing six matches.
He played in two further World Cups – 2011 and 2015 – captaining his country in the latter, where he scored a famous try to beat Wales in the quarterfinal.
*Video credit: The Big Jim Show
