England boss Eddie Jones has labelled Clive Woodward “sad” after his predecessor’s latest series of critical articles for the Mail Online.
The Aussie is under pressure after he watched his side conclude a dismal Autumn Nations series with a 27-13 loss to South Africa, who were without their European-based players but still inflicted a sixth defeat of 2022 on their hosts at Twickenham.
Woodward, who won the World Cup with England in 2003, labelled rugby in England a “total shambles”, with last weekend’s defeat “one of the most depressing games I’ve seen at HQ”.
Jones told Men’s Health UK: “I feel sad for him (Woodward). If that is the best thing he has to do in his life, then he hasn’t a lot to do.
“I’m 62 now and I think in pure coaching terms I am coaching better than I ever have. Results aren’t always perfect, but I’m happy with how I have been coaching.
“After this, I want to do something really meaningful. I’ve enjoyed England a lot, it was a bit of a rescue job at the start, now rebuilding, and I am confident I will leave things in good shape.”
Martin Johnson Has Been Voted The Greatest Ever Rugby Captain In History
Being the captain of a team is a major honour and responsibility. Only players that have leadership qualities and those that lead by example can take the responsibility.
A great captain can be the difference between a team that underwhelms or a team that dominates.
Over the years of following the game, we’ve seen captains come and go. Some are successful, others less so, and only a few leave a lasting legacy.
In international rugby, over the past many years, there have been several iconic captains. These players created a legacy at their respective clubs and have a legendary status in them.
With that in mind, who was the greatest rugby captain of all time? 1,000 RUCK readers have been ranking our selection of captains with England legend Martin Johnson being ranked the best of all-time.
The best rugby captains should have the following qualities:
- A great player
- Inspire confidence in their team
- Takes responsibility
- Lead by example
- Great sportsmanship
- Tactical knowhow
- Excellent communicator
- Emotional discipline
Greatest Ever Rugby Captains: Top 20
20. Phillipe Saint-Andre (France)
19. Lawrence Dallaglio (England)
18. Sergio Parisse (Italy)
17. John Dawes (Wales)
16. Will Carling (England)
15. Agustín Pichot (Argentina)
14. John Smit (South Africa)
13. Paul O’Connell (Ireland)
12. Sean Fitzpatrick (New Zealand)
11. Sam Warburton (Wales)