Eddie Jones named new England rugby union head coach

Eddie Jones has been appointed as England’s new rugby union head coach on a four-year contract.

The Australian will start work as Stuart Lancaster’s successor in December ahead of the Six Nations and becomes the first non-Englishman to take the job.

Jones led Australia to the 2003 World Cup final and was part of the South Africa staff for their 2007 success, and he made headlines at the recent tournament in England by masterminding Japan’s shock win over the Springboks.

The 55-year-old’s appointment means he leaves a role with Western Province’s Super Rugby side the Stormers without taking charge of a single game.

“Firstly my thanks must go to [chief executive] Rob Wagner and everyone at Western Province Rugby for understanding my decision and allowing me to return to the international stage so quickly,” Jones said.

“The opportunity to take the reins in, possibly, the world’s most high profile international rugby job doesn’t come along every day however, and I feel fortunate to be given the opportunity.

“I’m now looking forward to working with the RFU and the players to move beyond the disappointment England suffered at the World Cup and hope to build a new team that will reflect the level of talent that exists within the English game. I believe the future is bright for England.”