Eddie Jones has ruled himself out of coaching the British & Irish Lions in 2025.
Despite being the early favourite to take he role, the England head coach – who will depart Twickenham in 2023 – has ruled himself out of contention of leading the tourists in Australia.
“Respectfully, no,” said Jones during a fans Q&A for The Telegraph.
“I am an Australian and I don’t really have any connection to the Lions as such. I think it’d be better for someone from the home countries to do it.
“I’m also not suited to wearing a blazer 12 months of the year. Someone like Gregor Townsend or Andy Farrell would be better for that job than me.”
Rugby Australia are reportedly eager to include Fiji and Tonga in the tour of Australia.
Such a move would be a significant for the British and Irish Lions, who have only played one test match against a Pacific Island nation in the team’s 133-year history.
EDITORS PICKS:
- Gabriel Ibitoye set to make Gallagher Premiership return
- Richie McCaw’s dream pack is MONSTROUS
- Another Gallagher Premiership has been called off
- Fans Rank The 5 Most Hated Rugby Players
- Gallery: World’s highest-paid rugby players in 2022
5 FAVOURITES TO COACH THE LIONS IN 2025:
#5. Stuart Lancaster – 30/1
After the devastating end to his England tenure, Lancaster has rebuilt and enhanced his reputation at Leinster, winning a string of Pro 14 titles and a Champions Cup in 2018.