Can Eddie Jones get the English chariot swinging again?

The first overseas coach to guide England has now begun his work to repair the squad after the host nation’s embarrassing exit from the recent Rugby World Cup. His four-year deal extends to the 2019 World Cup in Japan, the country he guided to that extraordinary 34-32 upset of South Africa back in September of this year.

The England job is not an easy one. Stuart Lancaster came in with all the correct credentials, yet it would be fair to say his managerial reign imploded in disastrous fashion. After the conclusion of the World Cup there were few who believed Lancaster would stay on. Indeed, the writing was on the wall for Stuart Lancaster ever since the infamous 25-28 loss at the hands of Wales, now etched in history as one of the most gut-wrenching defeats for the English national rugby side.

The arrival of Eddie Jones suggests a new era, a new style of play and, for many, a new sense of optimism for the future. Jones himself has expressed his delight to be given the chance to work with the English national side.

“The opportunity to take the reins in, possibly, the world’s most high profile international rugby job doesn’t come along every day and I feel fortunate to be given the opportunity,” Jones said. “I’m now looking forward to working with the RFU and the players to move beyond the disappointment England suffered at the World Cup and hope to build a new team that will reflect the level of talent that exists within the English game. I believe the future is bright for England.”

Jones is not alone in thinking the future is bright for the England team. Despite the disappointments of the recent Rugby World Cup, the squad boasts talent that, if nurtured correctly, could grow to become a formidable force on the international rugby stage.

With talent such as Jonathan Joseph, Anthony Watson and Henry Slade at his disposal, Jones will not be looking to play a restrictive game.

In fact, there was nothing wrong with the direction England appeared to be heading in at the end of the 2015 Six Nations Championship. There was width to their game, penetration and a swagger about their attack. If Jones embraces the new talent at England’s disposal and instils belief in their attacking ability, the next few years could prove to be very exciting for England fans.

However, it is equally important not to get carried away. England are eighth in the world rankings and need a good year in 2016 to avoid being caught out again when the draw for the 2019 Rugby World Cup is made.

The 6 Nations will provide a fantastic opportunity for Jones to give the boys a run-out. His hands are somewhat tied in terms of team-selection, with the RFU rules meaning that he must retain at least two thirds of Lancaster’s World Cup squad. However, the new dynamism a manager brings to a squad, as well as a few new faces, may be enough to encourage the team to provide a good showing.

Can Eddie Jones get the English chariot swinging again?

Jones’ work is cut out for him, but there is real reason to believe that England can go on to achieve success in the coming years.

The disappointment of the 2015 Rugby World Cup served England fans a healthy reminder that the international rugby stage is as competitive as ever: however, with the right approach, the backing of a nation and a bit of inspiration from the newcomers to the squad, the future may indeed be bright for English rugby.

If you would like to see Eddie Jones’ boys in action, why not travel to the 6 Nations with BAC Sport? We are providing all-inclusive packages to all of England’s fixtures, as well as all other matches. For more information, please call us on 020 7456 7100 or email us at info@bacsport.co.uk for more info on our sports travel packages.