Australia’s head coach, Eddie Jones, launched a scathing criticism of the media, accusing them of dragging the nation’s rugby morale down through their persistent “negativity.”
This came as he confirmed the departure of attack coach Brad Davis from his coaching staff just prior to the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Davis, known for his coaching roles at esteemed English clubs such as Bath, Ospreys, and London Irish, was enlisted onto Jones’ coaching team in May. However, his exit follows a string of four consecutive Test defeats for the Wallabies in this season.
When questioned about whether Davis’ decision to step down was voluntary, Eddie Jones, the former England coach who is currently heading Australia’s team, responded, “Yeah, we had a discussion.”
As conversations continued, Eddie Jones’ patience waned when the discussion turned to his recently unveiled World Cup squad. The selection caused quite a stir due to the surprising exclusions of longtime captain Michael Hooper and experienced fly-half Quade Cooper.
“I think he’s very upset, mate,” Jones said of Cooper when adding that he had not returned his calls.
“I know you blokes think we can’t do anything (at the World Cup), so don’t ask any questions, boys,” he said. “Just be the pessimists you are. Keep Australian rugby where it’s been, keep it where it’s been.
“Complain about players that don’t get selected. Keep doing about that because it’s fantastic, we love it.”
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