Eddie Jones, the head coach of Japan's national rugby union team, has been suspended for four games and will face a salary reduction following an incident of verbal abuse directed at local match officials during a tour in Australia. The Japan Rugby Football Union (JRFU) announced the disciplinary measures, which stem from Jones's conduct during a Japan Under-23 tour in April.
Details of the Suspension
The 66-year-old Australian coach will miss Japan's Nations Championship opener against Italy on 4 July, which will be the fourth match of his ban. Additionally, Jones is prohibited from participating in two games featuring a Japan select team against Hong Kong on 22 and 29 May. He is also barred from the Japan XV match against the Maori All Blacks on 27 June.
JRFU Statement
The JRFU confirmed that Jones violated their ethics and disciplinary regulations. "These measures relate to incidences of verbal abuse directed at local match officials," the union stated.
Jones's Apology
In response, Jones issued a statement accepting the disciplinary action. "I accept the disciplinary action of the JRFU relating to the U23 Japan national team tour of Australia," he said. "Some inappropriate remarks that I made caused discomfort to local match officials and other related parties. I would like to offer my sincere apologies to everyone involved. I deeply regret my behaviour and words and will make every effort to ensure that this doesn't happen again."
Impact on Japan Rugby
The suspension sidelines Jones during a critical period as Japan prepares for the Nations Championship. The team will need to adjust their coaching setup for the upcoming fixtures. The JRFU's swift action underscores its commitment to maintaining professional standards and respect within the sport.
