Who was first choice to replace Stuart Lancaster in 2015? Eddie Jones was FIFTH

Wednesday, 03 November 2021 at 17:09

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byRugby Rucker

Eddie Jones has been in charge of England now for almost six years, but he wasn't the RFU's first choice if the initial betting odds are to be believed.

Stuart Lancaster resigned as England head coach following their disastrous 2015 World Cup performance, triggering a wave of speculation over who could replace him in charge of what was set to be a completely revamped national coaching team.

Lancaster left after four years in the job, having replaced Martin Johnson in 2012 after a similarly ill-fated World Cup campaign, and despite overseeing a restoration in the reputation of English rugby by implementing a disciplined selection policy, he has decided that he can no longer continue in the role after choosing to leave by mutual consent.

The likes of Wales head coach Warren Gatland, Australia’s Michael Cheika and New Zealand’s Steve Hansen were initially touted as possible targets for England, but all ruled out any possibility of replacing Lancaster.

Despite being the initial fifth favourite, Jones got the role.

Take a look below at who were the initial favourites for the role.

#5. Eddie Jones - 7/1

Eddie Jones, England head coach during the UMBRO photo call at Pennyhill Park, Bagshot on 27 Aug. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK

#4. Dean Ryan - 11/2

WORCESTER, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 23: Dean Ryan, Director of Rugby of Worcester Warriors poses for a portrait at the photocall held at Sixways Stadium on September 23, 2015 in Worcester, England. (Photo by Matthew Lewis/Getty Images)

#3. Rob Baxter - 11/2

Exeter Chiefs Director of Rugby, Rob Baxter during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Match between Bristol Bears and Exeter Chiefs at Ashton Gate on 23 Apr. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK

#2. Mike Ford - 5/1

BATH, ENGLAND - MAY 26: Mike Ford, the Bath director of rubgy, looks on during the Bath media day held at Farleigh House at on May 26, 2015 in Bath, England. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)

#1. Jake White - 9/2

The 52-year-old South African, who was currently in charge of French Top 14 side Montpellier, was installed as the initial favourite for the job. White, who infamously rejected the job following Martin Johnson's departure, was given an interview for the job but wasn't fancied by the RFU.