Wallabies Reflect on Eddie Jones’ Legacy Ahead of Twickenham Clash

Veteran Players Praise Current Coach Joe Schmidt

The spectre of former Wallabies coach Eddie Jones continues to captivate and intrigue the Australian rugby union team as they prepare for their Grand Slam tour opener against England at Twickenham this Saturday.

During the Wallabies’ first press conference, veteran center Samu Kerevi and lock Lukhan Salakaia-Loto were effusive in their praise for current coach Joe Schmidt, but the subject of Jones’ controversial tenure inevitably surfaced.

Kerevi, who played under Jones, dismissed former England scrum-half Danny Care’s claims that the Australian “ruled by fear,” stating, “I wouldn’t say terrifying. The pursuit of excellence puts pressure on everyone, and I think that’s just what Eddie is like.”

The 29-year-old acknowledged that the Wallabies struggled for results during Jones’ second stint, but emphasized the team’s focus is now firmly on the Schmidt era. “I’ve got a good relationship with Eddie. I wish him all the best,” Kerevi added.

Salakaia-Loto echoed Kerevi’s sentiments, describing Schmidt’s influence as a “fresh breath of air” for the squad. “His attention to detail around the game, the way he harps on the importance of the fundamentals and the basic skills, is something that’s been driven quite hard,” the lock said.

Potential Impact of Joseph Suaalii

Meanwhile, former Wallabies center Morgan Turinui tipped Joseph Suaalii, the ex-Roosters NRL star, to make an impact off the bench against England in the highly anticipated clash, which kicks off at 2:10 am AEDT on Sunday, November 10, and will be broadcast live on Stan Sport.

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