BBC Sport Rugby Union: Diplomatic Jones Plays Nice Ahead of Japan Clash
In a surprising turn of events, rugby union’s notorious mischief-maker Eddie Jones was on his best behavior during Thursday’s press conference in Japan. Back in the city where he sparked a spying scandal to unsettle the All Blacks in 2019, the former England coach refrained from his usual agenda-setting antics, offering nothing but praise for the home team.
“It is an excellent team,” Jones said. “Great selections.”
A far cry from his trademark mind games, the wily Australian was unusually diplomatic, even when asked about his relationship with current England boss Steve Borthwick, his former assistant.
This diplomatic shift may be due to Borthwick’s early team announcement, stealing Jones’ thunder. Or perhaps the veteran coach feels confident that his protégé-turned-rival lacks the experience to match his own cunning.
“We will take them to the last moment,” Jones added, his only bullish statement. “I have a good feeling in my bones.”
The clash between the two coaches is a captivating subplot to the on-field contest. Borthwick, dubbed “Teddie” in a nod to his towering stature, will seek to prove how much he learned from their five-year alliance at Saracens and with Japan. Meanwhile, Jones will want to demonstrate that his well-worn instincts still give him the upper hand.
While there is mutual respect, the two tacticians share a singularity of purpose – an unwavering dedication to succeed. Borthwick’s resilience in withstanding Jones’ notorious intensity is a testament to his ambition, as he worked tirelessly to become a head coach in his own right.
As England gear up for their away clash with Japan on Saturday, the off-field battle between the two masterminds promises to be as captivating as the on-field action. With Jones potentially sensing the writing on the wall, this could be the launch of a new era in Japanese rugby – one where the student surpasses the teacher.
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