England sideline ex-Bok coach
Yesterday at 02:04 AM
England's players and coaches have had no direct contact with Felix Jones this week, despite the World Cup-winning former Springbok assistant coach officially remaining on the RFU payroll.
Though the RFU insists Jones is working remotely from Dublin on an "analysis" basis until the season's end, neither assistant coach Richard Wigglesworth nor veteran England centre Henry Slade could clarify his contributions, when asked about him at a press conference this week.
"I'm not privy to it so I wouldn't be able to tell you," Wigglesworth admitted.
"I don't know [if he is doing analysis]. He's behind the scenes, it's not for me [to say]. For the analysis guys and other people… he was obviously defence and that side of it, so…"
Slade added that the players "do not have any contact" with Jones, who worked under Borthwick last year to establish a blitz defensive system before announcing his intention to leave the England camp to pursue other opportunities.
Though strength and conditioning coach Aled Walters was able to move freely to Ireland, the RFU chose to enforce Jones's notice period, keeping him tethered to the organisation until season's end.
A key figure in the Springboks' backroom team for both the 2019 and 2023 World Cup victories under Rassie Erasmus, Jones' tactical insight could offer England's squad a detailed view of South Africa's approach.
However, Wigglesworth was non-committal about whether Jones's unique knowledge of the Springboks had been tapped.
"I'm sure [his knowledge of South Africa] has been tapped into but their coaches have changed since he was there. They're playing a slightly different style," Wigglesworth remarked.
When asked if Jones was actively employed by the RFU, Wigglesworth reiterated, "I wouldn't be able to tell you. I've not spoken to him. I know he's working for us – behind the scenes that is – but I haven't spoken to him."
Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images
The post England sideline ex-Bok coach appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
