Mitchell signs England contract extension
England defence coach John Mitchell has signed a contract extension that keeps him in his role until the end of the 2023 World Cup. The former All Blacks boss joined Eddie Jones’ management team in 2018 after Paul Gustard departed for Harlequins and his responsibilities also include overseeing the development of the back row.
“I’m really happy to sign this contract extension. I’m thoroughly enjoying my time here with England and working with such a talented group of players, coaches and staff,” Mitchell said.
“It takes a long time to really build these relationships and I wanted to continue to carry on the work that we are all doing to achieve just what we are capable of here with England.
“I also think it’s the right place for me to evolve and challenge myself as a coach, I’m learning all the time and that’s only going to help me to improve the players and contribute more to this team. I really feel we have the potential to do some special things here.”
Mitchell was head coach of New Zealand from 2001 to 2003 and upon stepping down he began a nomadic coaching career that included clubs roles in England, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa and the United States.
The 56-year-old former number eight played in six uncapped matches for the All Blacks. “I’m very pleased to have Mitch here with us as we work to our goal of winning the World Cup in 2023,” Jones said.
“He’s an experienced and skilled Test coach who adds great value to the coaching staff and player development.”
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Excellent analysis Nick as we have come to expect. I was not really aware that NFL strategies have been adopted by rugby teams, especially in defence. One point I would make is that the Northhampton attacking player on the end of the chain in the video examples has not maintained the correct depth to be effective. In the footage shown the outside player is too flat to make the best of the opportunity his inside players have provided. In each case they have to reduce speed and turn their body backwards to secure the ball, losing all momentum and giving the impressive scrambling defence the chance to shut down the threat.
Go to commentsMorning, John. Do you think that it may be a good idea to rest both teams from the Madrid comp leading in to the Olympics
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