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Jones looking to 'create history' this summer

By Peter Thompson
England head coach Eddie Jones

Eddie Jones has challenged England to "create some history" when they tour South Africa next year.

The Six Nations champions will face the Springboks in three Tests in June as both sides step up their preparations for the 2019 World Cup in Japan.

England were beaten 2-0 when they last travelled to South Africa five years ago, but beat them 37-21 in their previous meeting at Twickenham last year.

Head coach Jones will expect his players to make another statement when the two nations lock horns in Johannesburg (June 9), Bloemfontein (June 16) and Cape Town (June 23).

"A three-Test series against South Africa is going to be a big challenge but a fantastic opportunity for this team," said the Australian.

"England have only ever won three games in South Africa so we have a chance to create some history by winning the series."

SA Rugby chief executive Jurie Roux said: "Under Eddie Jones the English have re-established themselves as one of the powerhouses of World Rugby – they have only lost one Test in the last two seasons,

"Our history against England goes back more than a century and we are looking forward to welcoming them back to South Africa next year in what promises to be a tough tour.

"In 2012, they played in Johannesburg, but it's been 10 years since they last visited Bloemfontein, while the Test in Cape Town will be England's first visit to the Mother City since 1998."