RFU statement: Matt Proudfoot

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) have confirmed that Matt Proudfoot’s tenure as England senior men’s forwards coach has come to an end.

Proudfoot was part of Eddie Jones’ coaching staff and will return to South Africa following the axing of Jones.

Earlier in the day Stellenbosch University confirmed that former Springbok assistant coachwill join the Maties for next season’s Varsity Cup. Proudfoot will join Maties after parting ways with England after three years.

An RFU statement reads: "Matt Proudfoot agreed to step down after three years under former England senior men’s head coach Eddie Jones.

"RFU executive director of performance rugby, Conor O’Shea said; “We are very grateful to Matt for all he has done for England and wish him every success in his next career move."

Proudfoot said: “It has been a privilege to be part of the team for the last three years.”

Proudfoot, South African born and a former Scottish international, was forwards coach with the South African national team from 2016 to 2019. The 50-year-old former prop was part of Rassie Erasmus’ backroom staff during the recent Rugby World Cup and joined the RFU following the conclusion of his contract with South Africa.

He previously coached at Western Province and Stormers in South Africa and Kobelco Steelers in Japan. Proudfoot, capped four times for Scotland between 1998 and 2003, played for Edinburgh and Glasgow Warriors and the Leopards and Blue Bulls in South Africa.