England coach quits to join international rivals with immediate effect
Yesterday at 06:15 AM
Felix Jones is heading back to South Africa. The Irishman will reunite with Rassie Erasmus and the Springboks from March 1, 2025, as SA Rugby has confirmed his return.
Join the RUCK's WhatsApp community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.
Jones, a key part of South Africa's back-to-back Rugby World Cup triumphs, spent 2024 with England before calling it quits after a chaotic year under Steve Borthwick. He resigned in December, reportedly frustrated with an "unstable working environment."
Rassie welcomes Jones back
Now, he's back where he made his name. Erasmus unveiled his new-look management team on Thursday, with Jones joining as an assistant coach alongside new appointments Lance Lemmetjies (physiotherapist) and Robyn Moore (team dietician).
"We are delighted to welcome Felix back," said Erasmus. "He was a vital cog in our 2019 and 2023 World Cup wins, and his experience will be invaluable as we build towards Australia 2027."
A Six Nations advantage?
Erasmus also hinted that Jones' time with England could be a secret weapon for the Springboks:
"After spending time in the UK, his knowledge of Six Nations teams and international opposition will help us improve as we prepare for a massive season ahead."
Jones now slots into a coaching group that includes Jerry Flannery and Tony Brown, with the Springboks looking to cement their status as the world's No.1 team.
EDITORS PICKS:
- Three ex-Lions were not impressed with Warren Gatland as head coach, including Finn Russell
- RFU confirms player has been banned for 'racially abusing' opponent
- Nigel Owens settles the debate on rugby's best stadium for atmosphere
- Alun Wyn Jones didn't even blink when asked who his toughest opponent was
- Arnold Schwarzenegger's rugby-playing son is the spitting image of his legendary father
Antoine Dupont didn't hesitate when naming his toughest opponent so far
Let's dive into why these three legends have earned Dupont's respect and what makes them so hard to beat.
Join the RUCK's WhatsApp community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.
Beauden Barrett – The All Blacks’ Game-Changer
If anyone can make even Dupont sweat, it's Beauden Barrett. New Zealand's speedster isn't just lightning fast—his rugby IQ is next level. Whether he's running the show at fly-half or sweeping in at full-back, Barrett's ability to read the game and create opportunities is unmatched.
With over 100 international caps and two World Rugby Player of the Year awards, Barrett's legacy is already cemented. His breakneck pace, combined with silky offloads, make him a nightmare to defend. Dupont knows better than anyone how dangerous Barrett can be.
Game-changing ability? Through the roof. Usually found ghosting past defenders before anyone knows he's there.
CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO
The post England coach quits to join international rivals with immediate effect appeared first on Ruck.
