Rugby Australia’s CEO, Phil Waugh, expressed his deep disappointment over the rumored job interview between Eddie Jones and the Japan Rugby Football Union (JRFU) before the World Cup. Despite these concerns, Waugh refrained from commenting on Eddie Jones’s future as the Wallabies’ coach until the completion of a comprehensive review.
This turmoil stems from a report by The Sydney Morning Herald that suggested Eddie Jones had undergone an interview with the JRFU for a potential role. This interview allegedly took place prior to the Wallabies’ opening match at the World Cup in France.
Eddie Jones currently holds a contract that extends through to the conclusion of the 2027 World Cup. He has consistently denied any intentions of leaving his role as the Wallabies’ coach and, as recently as Tuesday, reiterated his commitment to the Australian team.
Phil Waugh clarified that Eddie Jones had personally denied any such interview to him, and, at present, Waugh takes Jones at his word. Nevertheless, he emphasized that if evidence emerged to the contrary, it would be profoundly disappointing for everyone involved. Particularly, considering the critical juncture at which these events unfolded, just before the World Cup.
When asked if Eddie Jones’s actions could be perceived as disloyalty, Phil Waugh responded that anyone in reasonable judgment would question the appropriateness of such discussions taking place, especially in the midst of a World Cup campaign. Such actions, at a World Cup with high expectations of victory, would be considered highly disappointing.
The Japan Rugby Football Union has opted not to comment on the matter of Eddie Jones’s interview speculations, leaving many questions unanswered.
Eddie Jones had previously selected a relatively inexperienced squad for the World Cup, omitting several seasoned campaigners. This bold choice ultimately led to Australia’s early exit from the World Cup as they failed to progress past the group stage for the first time in their history.
Phil Waugh refrained from commenting on Eddie Jones’s future as the coach or whether such an interview with a rival rugby union could be regarded as a breach of contract. He reiterated that Rugby Australia would take appropriate action based on recommendations arising from the review and assessment of the World Cup campaign.
Waugh acknowledged the tremendous disappointment surrounding Australia’s performance in the World Cup and the loss of trust among supporters. Rugby Australia is committed to conducting a thorough evaluation of the team’s performance and campaign, with the hope of quickly regaining the trust of the public.
