Eddie Jones Resigns as Australia’s Rugby Coach After Disastrous World Cup

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In a startling upheaval within the Rugby world, Eddie Jones has tendered his resignation as the head coach of Australia, a role he had only embraced 10 months ago pursuant to a five-year contract. This decision came on the heels of a less than stellar performance by the Wallabies at the Rugby World Cup, marking the team’s lowest point in its tournament history.

Both losses to Wales and Fiji resulted in Australia’s premature departure from pool play, an unprecedented disappointment given the nation’s rich rugby history. Persistent rumors had suggested Jones’ wavering commitment to the Australian team, with ongoing talks of him rejoining Japan as its head coach. His revelation to Rugby Australia last Friday, expressing his readiness to step down from his role, points to his clear resolution. By Sunday night, all terms were amicably agreed upon.


Despite his prior dismissal by England, Jones was not entitled to any payout from his 5 million Australian dollar (US$3.2 million) contract when he took over the reins for the second time as Australia’s coach in January.

Expressing his disappointment, Jones reflected, “The intention to bring about systemic change could not be implemented within the brief period, leaving me with a profound sense of disappointment. However, I harbor no resentment. The enjoyable experience of coaching the players will remain unforgettable in my memory. They merely require a more conducive training and playing environment.”

Rugby Australia is reviewing the World Cup performance with keen critique, but Jones’ sudden departure will prevent his participation in this reflective process.

Jones’ induction as Wallabies coach in January, succeeding Dave Rennie, was lauded by Rugby Australia as a promising turning point. With a significant command over men’s and women’s Rugby in Australia, Jones was specifically entrusted with the Wallabies’ pathway to victory in the upcoming 2027 World Cup.

However, his abrupt resignation brings an undoubted disgruntlement to the Australian governing body. Jones’ second term as Wallabies coach, especially following his successful stint from 2001-2005 that saw the team advance to the final of the 2003 World Cup, has unfortunately ended in an ill-fated outcome.

The Wallabies’ run in the tournament, characterized by five consecutive losses prior to the World Cup, placed them at the bottom trailing New Zealand, South Africa, and Argentina. Despite the unexpected inclusion of young talent in place of seasoned players like Quade Cooper and Michael Hooper, Jones’ confidence in his team’s successful result in the World Cup remained unshaken.

In an unexpected turn of events, the Wallabies submitted to their first defeat to Fiji in almost seven decades and the largest-ever loss to Wales, a devastating 40-6. Their only moment of victory was against Georgia and Portugal.

At present, Jones is in Britain, looking forward to coaching the Barbarians invitation side against Wales before embarking on a leisure trip to Japan with his wife. His brief hiatus from coaching will indeed make room for reflection and future planning.