Sonny Bill Williams, the iconic All Blacks figure, strongly criticised Eddie Jones, the recently appointed head coach of Japan, labelling him a “disgrace” and accusing him of “clearly deceiving” both the Australian players and their supporters.
“My thoughts on this whole saga is that he lied,” Williams told Nine’s Wide World of Sports. “Obviously he lied to the players, he lied to the public, he lied to the Australian rugby union.
“What a disgrace. I guess that’s my first point.”
“Second point would be, I feel sorry for Japan. His track record speaks for itself,” said Williams.
“I’m a big believer in the proof is in the pudding and what is his proof? His proof is he’s been fired, sacked from England in the last few years. He’s burned a lot of bridges.
“I actually feel sorry for Japan that they believe this guy is gonna take them somewhere where his track record shows that he hasn’t been able to do.
“It seems like he’s a little bit out of touch with what’s going on.
“I guess I’m just speaking from an ex-player’s point of view. I could never believe in someone that I knew was pretty much full of crap.
“Japanese culture is all built on respect, loyalty, things that he’s shown that he’s not about.”
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“Led England at a tough time” – Nigel Owens ranks the top five captains he has refereed
The popular referee selected his picks for Wales Online, but set out at the start that he wouldn’t be picking any Welshman in his selection.
“I am not going to include any Welsh players on my list because I haven’t refereed them in international matches.
“Anyway, these are my top Test skippers ranked, Welshmen aside.”
NIGEL OWENS: MY TOP 5 CAPTAINS
#5. Chris Robshaw (England)
The flanker is a former English rugby union player who captained the national team from 2012 to 2015.
Known for his exceptional work rate and leadership skills, Robshaw was a dynamic flanker who made a significant impact on the field. He enjoyed a successful club career with Harlequins, where he played for over a decade. Robshaw’s dedication and commitment to the sport earned him numerous accolades and the respect of his peers.
Off the field, he is admired for his philanthropic efforts, using his platform to support various charitable causes.
Owens said: “Some people will be surprised at this one to start off. His misfortune was perhaps to be leading England during a difficult time, but he always gave everything for the cause, encouraging others to follow suit, and he was a nice guy off the pitch.”
