Jones allowed to continue advisory role in Japan

According to a report in skysports.com, the RFU have granted England head coach Eddie Jones to continue his advisory role with Japanese-based club Suntory Sungoliath, despite England being drawn in the same pool as Japan for the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

Jones has a long-standing relationship with Suntory, having coached them in 1997, 2009 and 2012 – leading them to the Top League final in the latter year.

He was appointed head coach of England in 2015 and took them to the World Cup final in last year’s tournament.

An RFU spokesperson said:

"Eddie has had a consultancy agreement with Suntory for over 20 years. He provides consultancy in his holidays and this role is in no way a conflict with his England team priorities."

Jones himself spoke of Japan after the recent draw:

"Japan are the most improved team in the game. It's going to be tough as we don't get many chances to play against teams like Japan so we are going to have to be really well prepared."