England head coach Eddie Jones has been rebuked by the Rugby Football Union (RFU) after criticising the game's reliance on the private school system. In a newspaper interview, Jones said the system produces 'closeted' players who lack 'resolve', and suggested it needed to be 'blown up'.
The RFU issued a statement confirming that chief executive Bill Sweeney spoke to Jones on Sunday, reiterating the union's appreciation for both independent and state schools in developing players. The statement highlighted that the most recent England squad included players from both sectors, such as Maro Itoje and Henry Arundell from private schools, and Jonny Hill and Courtney Lawes from state schools.
Jones's comments were condemned as 'insulting' and 'divisive and disrespectful' by Sir Clive Woodward, the 2003 World Cup-winning coach. Of the starting XV that beat Australia in the series decider last month, eight were educated at private schools, though the state sector provided the majority of the 2019 World Cup squad.
Jones told the i newspaper: 'If you have only been in a system where you get to 15, you have a bit of rugby ability and then go to Harrow. Then for two years you do nothing but play rugby, everything's done for you. That's the reality. You have this closeted life.' He argued that such players lack experience in adversity, affecting the team's resolve when under pressure.
The Australian has courted controversy throughout his seven-year tenure, most recently for confronting a fan who called him a 'traitor' during the third Test in Sydney. He oversaw a 2-1 series victory against Australia, easing concerns over his future after poor Six Nations performances.
