Eddie Jones has coached some of rugby’s most legendary players over his illustrious career, and now, at 64, the Aussie is reflecting on those who truly left an impression on him.
Known for his meticulous coaching and ability to get the best out of his players, Jones’ accolades span across coaching three teams to World Cup finals (Australia 2003, England 2019, and South Africa 2007), as well as stints with the Brumbies, Japan, Suntory Goliath, Saracens, and Queensland Reds.
Based on his interviews and comments over the years, we’ve crafted Eddie Jones’ dream team—the ultimate lineup he’s coached that could stand up to any team from any era.
DID YOU KNOW? Eddie Jones made three appearances for Leicester Tigers during the 1991/92 season in England. Quite a twist for the man who later became known for his astute coaching mind!
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Eddie Jones’ Dream Team:
BACK-THREE:
15. Matt Burke (Australia)
A player Jones rates highly for his all-around ability. Known for his composed leadership and superb kicking, Burke earned 81 caps for Australia and played a key role in the 1999 World Cup-winning side.
14. Bryan Habana (South Africa)
Arguably one of the best wingers to have ever played the game. Habana’s blistering pace and knack for scoring tries were unmatched, making him a regular in Jones’ praise. He’s a two-time World Cup winner and remains one of the all-time greats.
11. Lote Tuqiri (Australia)
A powerhouse wing, Tuqiri was an explosive force on the field with an unrelenting attacking presence. Jones saw his potential early and valued his strength, agility, and leadership in Australia’s 2003 and 2007 World Cup campaigns.
CENTRES:
13. Stirling Mortlock (Australia)
A veteran of the game and a player who embodied the toughness and skill of Australian rugby. Mortlock was key to Jones’ successful teams and known for his strong runs and crucial defensive plays.
12. Manu Tuilagi (England)
Jones has often praised Tuilagi for his power and fearlessness. The England centre is known for his devastating ball-carrying ability, and Jones made full use of this in England’s 2019 World Cup run, where Tuilagi’s impact was undeniable.
HALFBACKS:
Fly-half: Owen Farrell (England)
Owen Farrell is no stranger to high praise from Jones, and for good reason. A talismanic presence, Farrell’s tactical kicking, defensive strength, and leadership make him a standout in any team. Jones has relied on him as a key figure for England, especially in the 2019 World Cup final.
Scrum-half: George Gregan (Australia)
Gregan is widely regarded as one of the greatest scrum-halves in rugby history. A genius of the game, his sharp passing and tactical awareness were pivotal for Australia during the 2003 World Cup, and Jones never shied away from singing his praises.
FRONT-ROW:
Loosehead-prop: Mako Vunipola (England)
A cornerstone of the England pack, Mako Vunipola’s scrummaging power and dynamic carrying ability make him a key player in Jones’ dream team. He’s a leader on the field and has been pivotal for England’s success under Jones’ tutelage.
Hooker: John Smit (South Africa)
Smit was a key figure in South Africa’s 2007 World Cup win, earning Jones’ admiration for his leadership and ability to influence the game in the set-piece. A versatile player with incredible tactical nous.
Tighthead-prop: Kyle Sinckler (England)
Sinckler’s rise under Jones was impressive, with his incredible strength in the scrum and robust work rate around the park. His fiery nature and occasional on-field antics have made him a unique presence in Jones’ England squad.
SECOND-ROW:
Lock: Maro Itoje (England)
Itoje is a lock for any dream team, thanks to his exceptional lineout skills, defensive power, and leadership. Jones has nurtured Itoje into one of the world’s top locks and a cornerstone of England’s forward pack.
Lock: Victor Matfield (South Africa)
Matfield’s leadership and lineout expertise made him an essential player for South Africa, and Jones holds him in high regard. His ability to disrupt opposition ball and his towering presence in the set piece were critical to South Africa’s success.
BACK-ROW:
Blindside-flanker: Schalk Burger (South Africa)
Burger’s never-say-die attitude and relentless work rate earned him a spot in Jones’ dream team. The South African flanker was one of the most dynamic and aggressive players in the world, capable of turning a game on its head.
Openside-flanker: George Smith (Australia)
Smith was a phenomenon at openside. His tireless work at the breakdown and his ability to read the game made him one of the most effective players in world rugby. Jones always valued his sharp rugby brain and quick thinking.
Number 8: Billy Vunipola (England)
Vunipola’s power and dynamic carrying were central to England’s forward game. A key player in Jones’ England setup, Vunipola’s destructive ball-carrying and leadership have earned him a permanent spot in the dream team.
