Eddie Jones has reportedly been locked in as the new Japan coach on a four-year deal.
An announcement is expected on Thursday night at a press conference in Tokyo after Jones was told of his selection at a Japan Rugby Football Union board meeting on Wednesday, according the Sydney Morning Herald.
Despite his denial of any links to the role, Jones received board approval to take the Japan role just 45 days after he resigned as Wallabies coach following one of Australia’s worst World Cup campaigns in years.
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It was revealed by the Sydney Morning Herald that formal talks had taken place between Jones and the Japan Rugby Football Union in late August.
Jones, who won the job over South Africa’s Frans Ludeke, reported landed the role thanks to his connection to JRFU president Masato Tsuchida.
It won’t be the first time Jones has headed up Japan, with three years at the helm from 2012 to 2015.
Jones also ended his five-year Australian contract early, which was expected to see him in charge until the 2027 home World Cup campaign.
Earlier this year, Jones spoke with Tokyo Sungoliath coach Kiyonori Tanaka, alluding that the former Wallabies coach would soon lead Japan.
“It was revealed on the 8th that Eddie Jones (63), who served in the same position from 2012 to 2015, has been confirmed to return as the next head coach (HC) of the Japan national rugby team,” Japanese newspaper Sponichi reported, via online translation.
“If approved by the Board of Directors on the 13th, he will be officially appointed for the first time in eight years.
“Regarding the selection of the next head coach, Japan Association President Masato Tsuchida, who has a close relationship with Jones, led the return and made a secret offer to Jones, who had been Australia’s coach this spring.”
MORE TO COME.