England-bound coach Felix Jones has unveiled the winning formula for triumphing over South Africa, less than 24 hours following his second Rugby World Cup victory with the Springboks.
Jones’ swan song with the Springboks concluded in spectacular fashion, as they narrowly bested New Zealand by a single point to secure their second Rugby World Cup, marking a four-year interval since their previous championship in Japan.
With England’s sights set on securing the coveted rugby trophy at the upcoming 2027 tournament, they are counting on Jones to impart his invaluable insights and help mold them into a championship-caliber team.
In a post-match revelation, the 36-year-old Jones shared the secret behind South Africa’s remarkable success, asserting that their rivals can only hope to dethrone them by embracing a similar winning philosophy.
“With South Africa, it’s not just the title,” said Jones.
“It’s bigger than that. There’s something bigger they’re playing for that I can’t articulate. Every team has a soul or a DNA, a style or a way of playing.
“Every nation and every country has something. The goal is finding out how to make that more tangible. The best teams tap into that.”
Meanwhile, reports suggest Kevin Sinfield, having guided England to a third-place finish in the Rugby World Cup, may be departing his current post, which could potentially open the door for his return to the Tigers.
Reports suggest that Paul Gustard, the former England defense coach, has been approached regarding a potential return ahead of the upcoming Six Nations campaign.
This 47-year-old coach had previously served under the guidance of Eddie Jones but opted to forego a chance at the Rugby World Cup four years ago to assume the role of head coach at Harlequins.
Gustard’s ties with Borthwick, nurtured during their shared tenure at Saracens, have prompted preliminary discussions with England’s head coach over the past few weeks.
Renowned for his unconventional coaching methods, Gustard once made headlines for incorporating actual wolves into the training regimen during his stint with Saracens.
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The 30 best rugby players in the world have been ranked
#30. Dan Sheehan (Ireland)
A rising Irish hooker known for his powerful scrummaging and dynamic play in open field. Sheehan’s agility and tackling prowess make him a vital asset in set pieces and loose play alike, hinting at a promising future in international rugby
#29. Owen Farrell (England)
England’s steadfast captain and fly-half, Farrell’s tactical brilliance and accurate kicking guide his team’s gameplay. Renowned for his leadership, his defensive grit and ability to control the game’s pace make him a linchpin in England’s rugby strategy.
Wales Online wrote: “The 31-year-old has been in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons recently but is a player you’d rather play with than against. Farrell is a natural leader of men, and will play a crucial role if England are to drag themselves out of the rut they find themselves in.”
#28. Thibaud Flament (France)
A versatile lock for France, Flament’s towering presence in the lineout and ferocious work rate define his style. With his strong carrying and breakdown skills, he is a force to be reckoned with in both set-piece dominance and open-field encounters.
#27. Shannon Frizell (New Zealand)
Frizzell’s imposing physique and aggressive ball-carrying mark him as a formidable All Black flanker. His offloading ability, coupled with his defensive prowess, cements his position as a player who consistently makes his presence felt on the field.
#26. Steven Kitshoff (South Africa)
An anchor of the Springboks’ scrum, Kitshoff’s experience and technical expertise are unmatched. His exceptional work rate and relentless tackling contribute to his reputation as a reliable front-row stalwart, key to South Africa’s forward dominance.