Eddie Jones has reaffirmed his commitment to coaching the Wallabies until 2027, a decision welcomed by Rugby Australia administrators despite a turbulent year in which the team won just two of nine Tests and failed to reach the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in ten tournaments.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Jones dismissed reports that he had interviewed for the Japan coaching role, and called for alignment between grassroots and elite rugby. He argued that the current struggles represent an opportunity to rebuild with younger players. "I've got the foresight to see where we need to go," he said, citing his experience in difficult positions.
Critics point to a series of poor results under Jones, including five straight losses in the World Cup lead-up, a winless Rugby Championship, and a 2-0 Bledisloe Cup defeat. The coach was also accused of being fractious and unfocused in media dealings, while his decision to drop captain Michael Hooper and playmaker Quade Cooper for the World Cup was seen as a high-risk move that backfired.
Jones defended the selection approach, stating that young players would benefit from the experience at the 2027 World Cup in Australia. However, the early exit from the 2023 tournament left many fans and players deeply disappointed, with some suggesting the scars may take time to heal.
Beyond the men's side, Rugby Australia also holds hosting rights for the 2029 Women's World Cup, a development that falls within Jones's extended remit. The women's sevens team's Olympic gold in 2016 remains a rare highlight, though funding and professional opportunities for women's rugby continue to lag behind other codes.
